Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently revealed a new tattoo in workout photos posted online, sparking controversy among critics who argue it conveys an anti-Muslim message. The tattoo, located on the underside of his bicep, features the Arabic word “kafir,” meaning “disbeliever” or “infidel.”
Some claim it signals hostility toward Islam, particularly given Hegseth’s devout Christian beliefs and his other tattoos, including the Crusader slogan “Deus Vult.”
Activists and journalists criticized the tattoo as a provocative statement from a high-ranking U.S. official overseeing military operations in Muslim-majority regions. Meanwhile, supporters defended it as a common symbol among U.S. veterans opposing Islamic extremism. The Pentagon has not commented on the controversy.
This backlash follows another recent scandal involving Hegseth, in which he accidentally shared details about an upcoming military strike in Yemen with a journalist. Additionally, Hegseth’s history of religious and patriotic tattoos has previously drawn scrutiny, including one that led to his removal from duty at President Biden’s inauguration. Despite criticism, Hegseth has expressed pride in his tattoos, viewing them as personal expressions of his beliefs and convictions.
