US defense chief likens media to ‘Pharisees’ in criticism over Iran war coverage

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has intensified his criticism of the media, likening journalists covering the Iran war to the Pharisees, a biblical group known for opposing Jesus.

“I just can’t help but notice the endless stream of garbage, the relentlessly negative coverage you cannot resist peddling, despite the historic and important success of this effort and the success of our troops,” Hegseth said Thursday, referring to the Iran war.

The remarks were made during a Pentagon press briefing, where Hegseth initially described the American media as “incredibly unpatriotic.”

“Sometimes it’s hard to figure out what side some of you are actually on,” he said.

“Our press are just like these Pharisees, not all of you, not all of you, but the legacy Trump-hating press. Your politically motivated animus for President Trump nearly completely blinds you from the brilliance of our American warriors,” Hegseth said.

Hegseth accused the media of focusing only on negative aspects and seeking to discredit actions, saying: “I would ask you to open your eyes to the goodness, the historic success of our troops, the courage of this president.”