Pete Hegseth wasn’t pleased with a Newsmax reporter who asked questions about Donald Trump’s choices regarding the war in Iran.
During a Pentagon briefing on Tuesday, May 5, James Rosen started by thanking the president and his team.
He praised the efforts of the military and the success of Operation Epic Fury, which he said is often overlooked. However, he then asked the administration to address a key issue.
Rosen pointed out that on the first day of the conflict, the president told the people of Iran, “When we’re finished, take over your government.
It’ll be yours to take.”
He also noted how the president’s message changed by the seventh day.
Trump had written on Truth Social, “The president said, ‘There will be no deal with Iran except’ all caps, exclamation mark ‘UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER!'”
“You Started Out Nicely”
The journalist asked, “What happened to that promise to the Iranians?
And when did the president decide to give up on his demand for unconditional surrender?”
Hegseth responded angrily, saying, “You started out nicely, but you ended exactly where we knew you would end.
“
Pete Hegseth Defends Donald Trump
Hegseth insisted, “The president hasn’t given up on anything.
He holds the cards, we have the advantage, and Project Freedom makes that stronger. And so, he will make sure whatever deal is made or whatever outcome happens, it ensures that Iran never gets a nuclear weapon, which is the top priority.”
He added, “The deal and discussions are centered on that.
What the Iranian people do after that is up to them. And he’s been very clear about that.”
Hegseth has always supported Trump, recently getting upset when someone questioned the president’s mental state.
During a Capitol Hill hearing in April, San Diego Democrat Sara Jacobs asked, “Do you think the president is mentally stable enough to be the commander-in-chief?”
Hegseth replied, “Did you ask the same question of Joe Biden for four years?”
Jacobs responded, “Mr. Secretary, Joe Biden is not the President. Mr. Trump has been president for a year and a half.”
Hegseth said, “I won’t engage with the level of disrespect you’re showing the commander-in-chief.
He’s the sharpest and most insightful commander-in-chief we’ve had in generations.”
About the Author
