Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Tuesday that he ended a Pentagon initiative supporting women in national security roles. The move sparked immediate debate across political lines.
In a post on social media platform X, Hegseth dismissed the “Women, Peace & Security” program as a “UN initiative.” He said it was “pushed by feminists and left-wing activists” and claimed “troops HATE it.” He did not offer specific data to support that claim.
However, the initiative had strong bipartisan support when it became law in 2017. President Donald Trump signed the legislation during his first term. Lawmakers created it to ensure women could contribute to security missions, especially in areas with cultural restrictions.
Women in national security have played critical roles during overseas missions. For example, U.S. troops have relied on female personnel to speak with local women. This practice has helped soldiers gather intelligence and understand the environment better. Gen. Dan Caine, now Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, praised the program during a recent Senate hearing.
“When our teams completed missions,” Caine said, “women engaged with civilians and brought back key insights we’d miss otherwise.”
Despite this testimony, Hegseth doubled down. He claimed the Biden administration “distorted” the program’s original purpose. In a follow-up post, he said the program was once “security-focused,” but had become “political.”
Trump officials, including current Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, supported the law. Noem co-wrote the 2017 bill with Democratic Rep. Jan Schakowsky. Both leaders viewed women in national security as essential to global peace efforts.
Still, Hegseth stands by his decision. His office confirmed no additional comments would be made. The Pentagon has not yet responded to media requests.
Critics argue the move undercuts progress for women in national security. Supporters of the repeal say it reflects a needed shift in defense priorities.
As this debate grows, the future of women in national security remains a divisive issue on Capitol Hill.
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