Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth Faces Backlash Over Tattoos Uncovered During Military Exercise
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth is under scrutiny after photos from a recent military exercise in Pearl Harbor revealed tattoos that many are calling controversial.
Among the tattoos visible in the newly circulated images is the Arabic word “kafir”, inked beneath Hegseth’s right bicep. In Islamic texts, kafir refers to someone who rejects or disbelieves in God, and the term is often viewed as inflammatory when used in a derogatory context.
Positioned nearby is another tattoo that reads “Deus Vult”, a Latin phrase meaning “God wills it”—a slogan historically linked to the First Crusade, a period marked by violent religious conflict.
The imagery drew swift criticism from civil rights groups. Nihad Awad, national executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), issued a pointed statement:
“It appears that Islam occupies so much space in Pete Hegseth’s mind that he felt compelled to permanently mark his rejection of it on his body—alongside a slogan glorifying the Crusaders, who committed atrocities against Muslims, Jews, and even Christians centuries ago.”
Religious Convictions and Symbolism
Hegseth, who openly identifies as a devout Christian, often cites his faith as a driving force in both his private life and public service. His tattoos, which include numerous religious symbols, serve as personal expressions of his beliefs, patriotism, and worldview.
One prominent tattoo on his arm is a cross paired with a sword—his interpretation of Matthew 10:34: “I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.” Another tattoo, the Jerusalem Cross, has roots in the Crusades and reportedly played a role in his release from National Guard duty ahead of President Joe Biden’s 2021 inauguration.
Ongoing Controversy
The Deus Vult and kafir tattoos, in particular, have sparked criticism for their historical associations with religious violence and their potential to be perceived as anti-Muslim symbols. Hegseth, however, has described the tattoos as expressions of his Christian identity rather than political or hostile statements.
As the backlash grows, Secretary Hegseth has yet to issue a formal response to the release of the photos or to the renewed accusations surrounding his body art.