Democratic lawmaker condemns Hegseth’s call for ‘no quarter’ for US enemies

The Guardian US News
by Edward Helmore
March 14, 2026
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2 min read

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Defense Secretary Hegseth called for 'no quarter' for U.S. enemies during Pentagon briefing.

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Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth called for "no quarter" for US enemies during a Friday press briefing at the Pentagon. Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona, a Democrat with military experience, criticized the statement on X, explaining that "no quarter" means taking no prisoners and killing them instead. Kelly warned that if troops followed such an order, it would constitute a potential violation of international law. The controversy highlights concerns about the Defense Secretary's rhetoric regarding military engagement with adversaries.

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Senator Mark Kelly criticized the statement as potentially violating international law.

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