'rules of engagement' comment set off alarms on social media: 'Great way to go to jail'

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defended the Iran attack at a Pentagon press conference, dismissing traditional U.S. allies as "pearl-clutching" while attacking the press for spreading "fake news." He boasted that Israel had "clear missions" and criticized allies for opposing military force. Most controversially, Hegseth promised "no stupid rules of engagement," triggering alarm among national security experts on social media. Former Chicago Tribune editor Mark Jacobs warned the statement means abandoning Geneva Conventions and international humanitarian law. Democratization Policy Council founder Toby Vogel cautioned the approach is "a great way to go to jail for war crimes." Academic Lee Papa emphasized rules of engagement protect troops and civilians. National security analyst Stephanie Carvin called the position "nihilism." Journalist Will Harris noted many generals view Hegseth as incompetent.

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