US political figures criticize defense leadership and nuclear rhetoric

Former US President Barack Obama criticized Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth during a campaign rally in Ohio. Obama mocked Hegseth’s focus on physical traits of troops, specifically mentioning mandatory testosterone deficiency testing for military personnel aged 30 and older. Obama questioned the seriousness of the administration's leadership regarding military management.

Separately, former US Colonel and advisor Douglas McGregor warned of extreme danger regarding potential US military actions against Iran. McGregor claimed that certain officials in Washington are advocating for the use of tactical nuclear weapons against Iranian military or nuclear installations. He warned that such actions could provoke a global conflict and lead to the United States and Israel becoming pariah states.