Hegseth’s call for ‘no mercy’ to Iranians deemed war crime

March 17, 2026

TL;DR

US War Secretary Pete Hegseth is accused of encouraging war crimes with his "no quarter" declaration for Iranian forces.
The term "no quarter" implies executing surrendering enemy soldiers instead of taking them prisoner.
US officials and legal experts state this violates international laws, including the Hague and Geneva Conventions.
These conventions forbid harming combatants unable to defend themselves or who have surrendered.
The remarks also contravene US domestic law, such as the 1996 War Crimes Act.
The US military has prohibited orders to take no prisoners since 1863.
Senator Mark Kelly criticized Hegseth's comment as an illegal order that jeopardizes US service members and indicates a lack of clear strategy.
A retired judge advocate proposed a hypothetical memo warning Hegseth of criminal liability.
Hegseth has previously dismissed concerns about international law, calling rules of engagement "stupid" and "politically correct."
The accusations follow a US strike in Iran that killed over 170 people, including children.

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