US Defence Secretary Creates Pentagon Religious Affairs Office

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the creation of the Office of Religious Affairs (ORA) during a speech on Wednesday, positioning it as part of broader efforts to strengthen religious support within the military. The new office will advocate for military chaplains and religious support services at the highest departmental levels, according to Pentagon officials.

Hegseth has characterised the move as essential to the Pentagon's mission, framing it in explicitly religious terms. "While we wage physical war, we all know the real battle is spiritual," he said, adding that the department is "putting on the full armour of God."

Since assuming his role, Hegseth has integrated his evangelical Christian faith prominently into Pentagon leadership, hosting Christian worship services for employees and frequently referencing the United States as a Christian nation. The Pentagon statement asserts that the ORA will not "compel religious participation, favour one faith, or diminish the rights of personnel of any faith or lack thereof."

The initiative has already drawn criticism from observers concerned about the blending of religious leadership with military command structures. The office's establishment represents a significant shift in how the Pentagon approaches its role in facilitating religious observance among personnel.