US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth is facing backlash over a new tattoo that reads “kafir” (infidel) in Arabic, a term critics say has been weaponized by far-right Islamophobes.
Key Controversies:
1. The ‘Kafir’ Tattoo & Accusations of Islamophobia
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Hegseth posted a picture of his new tattoo on his arm, which spells ‘kafir’ in Arabic.
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Critics, including Palestinian activist Nerdeen Kiswani, claim the tattoo signals anti-Muslim sentiment, especially when combined with his existing ‘Deus Vult’ tattoo—a Crusader battle cry.
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CAIR (Council on American-Islamic Relations) condemned the tattoo as a symbol of “anti-Muslim hostility”, arguing that it undermines trust in the military, where thousands of Muslim Americans serve.
2. Hegseth’s History of Controversies
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Past allegations of Islamophobic remarks:
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A 2015 incident where Hegseth allegedly shouted “kill all Muslims” while drunk in Ohio.
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His ‘Deus Vult’ and Jerusalem Cross tattoos, symbols that some far-right groups have co-opted.
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The Yemen bombing scandal:
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Hegseth is under Congressional scrutiny for his role in a Signal leak that exposed US bombing plans in Yemen.
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Some lawmakers are calling for his resignation.
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Reactions & Impact:
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Islamic groups & activists:
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View the tattoo as a provocation against Muslim communities.
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Fear it could fuel hostility in US military operations.
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Military & political concerns:
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Raises questions about whether personal beliefs influence military policies.
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Could damage US relations with Muslim-majority allies.
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What’s Next?
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Will Hegseth address the backlash?
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Will Congress pursue an investigation into his past remarks and actions?
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How will this affect US military engagement in the Middle East?
This latest controversy adds to the growing scrutiny over Hegseth’s leadership—and could intensify calls for his resignation.
