A complaint filed with a military watchdog group alleges that a U.S. military commander told a group of non-commissioned officers that President Donald Trump had been “anointed by Jesus” to spark events leading to Armageddon.
According to the complaint, the remarks were made during a briefing attended by several NCOs. The report was submitted to the Military Religious Freedom Foundation (MRFF) by one of the service members present, who said the complaint represents concerns from 15 troops in attendance. The group reportedly included 11 Christians, one Muslim, one Jewish service member, and two atheists.
The incident was first reported by journalist Jonathan Larsen on his Substack.
In the complaint, the NCO claimed the commander told the group that Trump had been chosen to “light the signal fire in Iran” as part of a divine plan tied to the events described in the Book of Revelation.
The commander allegedly encouraged the NCOs to relay the message to troops under their command and described current geopolitical events as part of God’s broader plan. The complaint also stated that the officer referenced biblical passages about Armageddon and the return of Jesus Christ.
The service member who filed the complaint described the remarks as unsettling and said the commander appeared enthusiastic while making the statements.
The Military Religious Freedom Foundation, a nonprofit organization that advocates for the separation of religion and military authority, said the complaint was one of more than 200 it has received from service members following the recent escalation involving U.S. and Israeli military actions against Iran.
MRFF founder Mikey Weinstein said the group has heard from troops across dozens of military installations raising concerns about religious rhetoric being connected to military operations.
“Military members are often hesitant to challenge statements made by superiors,” Weinstein said, noting the power dynamics within the chain of command.
Weinstein argued that blending religious interpretations with military decisions could create tension within the ranks, particularly among service members from diverse faith backgrounds.
The complaint also referenced broader concerns about religious influence in defense leadership. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has drawn attention in recent months for participating in faith-related activities, including hosting regular prayer gatherings at the Pentagon.
Reports have also noted Hegseth’s association with pastors and churches that promote strong Christian theological viewpoints.
Critics say such connections raise questions about whether religious beliefs could influence national security policy, while supporters argue that personal faith is common among public officials and does not necessarily affect official decision-making.
The Pentagon has not publicly commented on the specific allegations contained in the complaint.
The report comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East and ongoing debate in Washington over the role of religion in public life and government institutions.
