The US administration's use of religious rhetoric to justify its war in Iran has been criticised as an attempt to undermine long-held political tradition. The Trump administration's willingness to imply divine endorsement of its authority and use of religion to justify war in the Middle East is seen as a move that could erode the tradition of American presidents seeking God's blessing in wartime. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who frames his briefings with scripture and presents America’s troops as spiritual warriors, has been criticized for using his faith heavily. The increasing religiosity reflects a hardening of Republican ideology and the influence of a more radical evangelical creed, which has coincided with the rise of MAGA. Critics worry that overt religious rhetoric can marginalize others, particularly in the military where many faiths are practiced and the military. The Pentagon has defended the defense secretary's Christian rhetoric as a public expression.