US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, already embroiled in multiple controversies—including the "Signalgate" scandal involving leaked military plans and allegations of nepotism for involving family members in official duties—has ignited fresh criticism. A recent social media post revealed his tattoo of the Arabic word "Kafir," meaning "infidel" or "non-believer." Many Muslims find this term deeply offensive, leading to widespread condemnation online
On March 25, Hegseth shared several photos on X (formerly Twitter). One image clearly showed his tattoo, which reads "Kafir" in Arabic. The term is often used in Islamic contexts to describe those who reject belief in God. For many Muslims, it carries negative and insulting connotations.
Reports indicate that the tattoo is not new. A past photo from July 2024 also showed the same tattoo, suggesting Hegseth has had it for some time. However, its recent visibility has reignited the debate over his stance on Islam.
Critics argue that the tattoo is not just a personal choice but a deliberate provocation. Nerdeen Kiswani, a pro-Palestinian activist based in New York, stated that it represents "a clear symbol of Islamophobia from the man overseeing US wars."
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), a major Muslim civil rights organization in the US, strongly condemned Hegseth's tattoo. "It is a sign of both anti-Muslim hostility and personal insecurity," the group stated.
"It appears Islam lives rent-free in Pete Hegseth's head," CAIR continued. "He feels the need to stamp himself with tattoos declaring his opposition to Islam. This is alongside his tattoo honoring the failed Crusaders, who committed genocidal acts against Jews, Muslims, and even fellow Christians."
The organization also reminded Hegseth of his responsibilities as defense secretary. "He leads the U.S. armed forces, which includes thousands of American Muslims. He is sworn to defend the American people, who include millions of American Muslims."
Hegseth's tattoo has sparked intense debate, with many social media users slamming him. One viral post criticized him with a heartbreaking video from Palestine. "The Honorable Secretary of Defense, you didn't need to write 'Kafir' on your arm. Just post a video of a Palestinian father carrying his child's severed head and write, 'This is what our bombs do.'"
Others mocked him for what they see as a contradiction. "Imagine claiming to be a Christian but tattooing 'Disbeliever' on yourself in Arabic," one user wrote. "This isn't a statement about a specific religion—it strictly means disbeliever in God."
This controversy comes at a difficult time for Hegseth. He is already facing scrutiny over his involvement in 'Signalgate,' a scandal involving leaked US military plans to bomb Yemen. Private chat logs allegedly revealing sensitive operational details were exposed online, putting the Pentagon on the defensive.
Hegseth has denied wrongdoing in the leak, dismissing concerns over the leaked discussions. "No names. No targets. No locations," he said in his own defense. However, critics say his role in the controversy raises questions about his competence as defense secretary.
Hegseth, a former Fox News host and close ally of Donald Trump, has a history of making controversial statements about Islam. He has previously advocated for policies viewed as hostile toward Muslims. His critics argue that the tattoo is just the latest in a long line of actions showing his disregard for Muslim communities.
For now, Hegseth has not responded directly to the backlash over his tattoo. Whether this controversy fades or escalates further may depend on how he addresses the concerns of American Muslims and the broader public.
