PENTAGON PRESS BRIEFING
US Secy of State Rubio defends Hegseth amid impeachment bid, says "Pete executed a direct order" from President Trump
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed support for Secretary of War Pete Hegseth during an impeachment effort. Rubio argued that Hegseth acted on President Donald Trump's direct orders regarding military operations. He emphasized the necessity of addressing threats posed by Iran, Yemen, and Venezuela. In a press briefing, Hegseth defended the legality of these military actions and criticized the impeachment as politically motivated.
"Certainly not going to indulge in any finger pointing": Hegseth after JD Vance links Iran war to GOP midterm losses
US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth addressed concerns regarding military actions and ongoing impeachment efforts. He emphasized that military operations in Iran and other regions were lawful and necessary. Hegseth dismissed the impeachment resolution introduced by Representative Thomas Massie as a political stunt driven by personal motives. Despite criticism, he maintained the significance of the military's role in national security.
'A' plus plus plus grade: Trump praises Pete Hegseth's performance
President Trump has endorsed Secretary of War Pete Hegseth during his defense against impeachment initiated by Thomas Massie. Hegseth faces charges related to military operations in Iran, Yemen, and Venezuela which some lawmakers say violate the Constitution. His strong rebuttal emphasizes legality and stress over political motivations behind the impeachment resolution. The House is set to examine these allegations further, with proceedings currently underway.
World War III: US to introduce mandatory military service as Trump, Vance abruptly cancel campaign rallies amid Iran tensions?
Fears of World War III are growing amid rising tensions between the US and Iran, with President Donald Trump abruptly cancelling his scheduled campaign events over the weekend. The developments have raised questions about whether the conflict could escalate and whether American civilians could eventually be called up for military service.
Iran targeted US air defences then hit aircraft and buildings on Mideast bases: AP analysis
An Associated Press analysis of satellite imagery and regional officials' accounts found that Iranian strikes damaged or destroyed structures at 26 US military bases and other sites across the Middle East through August. Iran initially targeted early-warning radars and aircraft infrastructure before hitting warehouses, troop accommodation and other facilities, causing billions of dollars in equipment damage.
Families of some US troops killed in the Iran war's deadliest strike absent from White House event
At a recent White House gathering, relatives of servicemen who fell in the Iran war came together to honor their ultimate sacrifice and air their frustrations. A significant number are upset about the unresolved inquiries regarding the deadly March 1 drone strike that left six soldiers dead. The ceremony honored around 40 fallen heroes, yet many families lamented the lack of timely invitations, leaving several feeling excluded.
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What is the White House pool? These days, it's a battleground between Trump and free press rights
CNN, MS NOW and Politico have sued the Trump administration after being barred from the White House, arguing the move violates their First Amendment rights. The dispute has also disrupted the presidential TV press pool, with broadcasters declining to replace CNN’s scheduled coverage. The White House says access is a privilege, not a right.
Bombs were loaded, targets were set, then Trump changed his mind. Behind America’s U-turn on Houthi strikes
US President Donald Trump ordered preparations for airstrikes against Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen after Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman urged US military intervention, but later put the strikes on hold. According to The New York Times, US military preparations had advanced significantly, with target lists approved and warplanes being loaded with weapons, before Trump reversed the decision on Sunday.
Xi Jinping to bring large CEO delegation on US visit, sources say
President Xi Jinping plans a large business delegation for his upcoming Washington visit. This unusual move signals China's willingness to support investment and commercial ties. Chinese companies have faced increasing scrutiny and U.S. restrictions on their operations. Expectations for the summit remain modest with limited prospects for major breakthroughs. Both nations are discussing reciprocal tariff reductions and non-tariff barriers.
Hegseth invokes Bible to compare reporters to enemies of Jesus
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth compared reporters to biblical figures who plotted against Jesus Christ. He made these remarks during a Pentagon briefing on the war with Iran. This comes amid a dispute between President Donald Trump and Pope Leo. Pope Leo later posted a message criticizing the manipulation of religion for gain.
In US, journalists turn in access badges, exit Pentagon rather than agree to govt's new reporting rules
Dozens of reporters exited the Pentagon, turning in access badges to protest government-imposed restrictions on their work. News organizations rejected new rules from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, which would penalize journalists for reporting unapproved information. This action pushes the press further from the seat of military power, with many vowing to continue robust coverage despite the challenges.
Major news outlets refuse to cower down to Pentagon’s threat to press; CNN, Reuters, NYT to not sign paperwork amid Hegseth’s directive
The Pentagon has given beat reporters until Tuesday, October 14, to sign restrictive new rules or surrender their press passes by Wednesday, October 15, CNN reported. Many news organizations are rejecting the ultimatum and saying they will not sign.
'You misquote Trump the most': Pentagon’s Pete Hegseth slams Fox News reporter in explosive briefing over Iran strike question
At a fiery Pentagon briefing, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth rebuked veteran Fox News journalist Jennifer Griffin for questioning the impact of American strikes on Iran’s Fordow nuclear site. The exchange comes amid leaked intelligence suggesting the damage may be less than claimed. While the Pentagon insists on mission success, doubts persist over Iran’s uranium stockpile. Meanwhile, the Trump administration plans to restrict intelligence access following the leak, drawing criticism from political leaders and journalists across the spectrum.
Pentagon watchdog investigates if staffers were asked to delete Hegseth's Signal messages
This comes as Hegseth is scheduled to testify before Congress next week for the first time since his confirmation hearing. He is likely to face questions under oath not only about his handling of sensitive information but also the wider turmoil at the Pentagon following the departures of several senior aides and an internal investigation over information leaks.
Freedom of the press or favor for Pete Hegseth? MAGA Pentagon reporter fired after scathing commentary
Gabrielle Cuccia, a MAGA-supporting reporter for OAN, was reportedly fired after publicly criticizing Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's limitations on press access. Cuccia's Substack post questioned the Defense Department's justification for restricting journalists' access to the Pentagon and the lack of official press conferences.
Mired with controversies, US Defense Sec Pete Hegseth announces new press policy within Pentagon
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Friday issued orders that require journalists to have official escorts within much of the Pentagon building, the latest in a series of Trump administration restrictions placed on the press. He called the protection of classified national intelligence information and operational security "an unwavering imperative for the Department."
'Pentagon princess': Pete Hegseth under fire again for spending huge money for makeup studio
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has denied a report that he refurbished a green room as a makeup studio in the Pentagon for high-ranking officials to prepare before on-camera appearances. Hegseth has come under intense criticism after it emerged he was a member of two Signal groups where upcoming U.S. airstrikes targeting Houthi militants in Yemen in March were discussed.
Taxpayer outrage as Pete Hegseth reportedly splurges thousands of dollars turning Pentagon room into make-up studio for TV appearances
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faces scrutiny for allegedly spending taxpayer money to convert a Pentagon green room into a makeup studio. This renovation, which included installing new lighting and furniture, occurred while the Trump administration emphasized fiscal responsibility. The project was reportedly approved by several individuals with ties to Fox News, raising further questions amid budget cuts.
Gone out of control? Elon Musk threatens Pentagon leakers after reports he’ll get top secret briefing on U.S war plans for China; Donald Trump intervenes
Elon Musk threatened legal action against Pentagon officials for allegedly leaking false information about him receiving a classified briefing on US military plans against China. Musk criticized the New York Times for its report. Both Donald Trump and Pentagon officials confirmed the reports were untrue, clarifying Musk’s visit was about innovation.
Pentagon "still assessing attack" on Israel, says no US personnel injured or harmed
Iran launched approximately 200 ballistic missiles towards Israel, prompting the US Navy to assist in defense with interceptors. The Pentagon reported minimal damage and ongoing assessments. Key US officials remain in contact, with Israel vowing retaliation and calling the attack a severe escalation.
US personnel injured in rocket attack on Iraq base; Austin in call with Israel minister says "dangerous escalation"
A suspected rocket attack on Al-Asad Airbase in western Iraq injured several US personnel on Monday, according to the Pentagon. The attack follows the recent killings of Hamas and Hezbollah leaders, which Iran has vowed to avenge. US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin and Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant discussed the incident, deeming it a dangerous escalation by Iran-aligned militias. The US is taking measures to support Israel's defense, including deploying additional military assets and reinforcing regional force posture to deter further aggression.
'We fully support India's efforts to control the situation': US on India-China border clash
The statement came in the wake of the latest clash between troops of both sides, when as many as 300 Chinese troops arrived near the LAC on December 9 to gain control over the peak of a 17,000-feet-high mountain under a well-planned conspiracy, but the Indian troops foiled their attempt.
American, Russian defence chiefs speak for first time since Ukraine war
Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby said during the call on Friday, Austin "urged an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine and emphasized the importance of maintaining lines of communication".
'No decision to change' August 31 deadline to withdraw all US troops from Afghanistan, says Pentagon
During an on-camera briefing on Thursday (local time) at the Pentagon, Kirby said, "We are focused on doing everything we can inside that deadline to move as many people out as possible".
Ashton Carter had productive conversation with Manohar Parrikar: Pentagon
Carter had a productive conversation with Parrikar in Malaysia and is looking forward to hosting him at the Pentagon next month, his spokesman said.
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