Hegseth also called "Our diversity is our strength" the "single dumbest phrase in military history," and intends to end the military's DEI programs.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Friday doubled down on his push to eliminate the department’s diversity, equity and inclusion efforts, and renewed his pledge that the military would support President Donald Trump’s deportation efforts.

The defense secretary, speaking to the Pentagon work force, defended his “unconventional approaches” to an audience that included women and people of color.

WASHINGTON: US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Friday (Feb 7) chided past celebrations of the US military's diversity in a broad address to Pentagon staff in which he also promised a tougher approach to NATO and accountability over the war in Afghanistan.

"I think the single dumbest phrase in military history is, 'Our diversity is our strength. I think our strength is our unity," he said. Hegseth continued: "Our strength is our shared purpose, regardless of our background,