The defense secretary touted public support for the war during remarks at the Pentagon on Thursday, contrasting that with what he said was an overly critical press.
“They see the success. They see the reality. And they don’t demand perfection,” Hegseth said of the public, after criticizing the press.
“You only seek the negative,” Hegseth said of the press.
Hegseth is overstating public support for the conflict. A recent AP-NORC poll shows nearly 60% of Americans say U.S. military action in Iran has been excessive. Meanwhile, 45% are “extremely” or “very” concerned about being able to afford gas in the next few months.