Protesters Interrupt Defense Secretary at Autonomous Warfare Panel

During an autonomous warfare panel at the U.S. Army’s 2026 Annual Meeting and Exposition in Washington, D.C., Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth faced interruptions from anti-war protesters. The incident occurred at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.

In about five minutes, protesters interrupted Hegseth four times. One protester shouted, “Children in Gaza are starving! He is a war criminal!” Another protester accused, “You’re not a warrior, you’re a coward!” Following one of the interruptions, Hegseth responded with, “She thinks highly of me.” The event security appeared to escort all six protesters out.

The disruptions highlight ongoing opposition to U.S. military policy in the Middle East. The Trump administration has faced criticism for its support of Israel and its military actions in Gaza. Additionally, Hegseth has been involved in expanding the administration’s military campaign against Iran in 2026.

This year, U.S. and Israeli forces initiated strikes against Iran. Hegseth and President Donald Trump stated that the campaign aims to dismantle threats posed by Iran’s nuclear program and its military capabilities.

Newsweek has reached out to the Pentagon via email for a comment regarding the incident.

Please refer to Newsweek editors Samantha Beech and Sam Wilson for updates on this story.