'They didn't do it willingly': MTG blasts Hegseth's 'sacrifice' remark on US troops killed in Jordan

WASHINGTON, DC: Former Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene publicly criticized Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Saturday, July 18, after he described two US service members killed in Jordan as having made a "sacrifice."

The exchange followed confirmation from US Central Command (CENTCOM) that two American troops were killed and another remains missing after Iranian ballistic missile and drone attacks on a US base in Jordan.

The deaths prompted tributes from lawmakers across both parties while also renewing debate over the administration's military campaign against Iran.

MTG attacks Pete Hegseth over fallen troops tribute

Greene took issue with Hegseth's statement honoring the service members, arguing that describing their deaths as a voluntary sacrifice mischaracterized what had happened.

Following the announcement shared by CENTCOM, Hegseth wrote on X, "Godspeed, heroes. Their sacrifice only stiffens our resolve."

Greene responded directly to the defense secretary's remarks, questioning, "Sacrifice?? What are you talking about?? they did not willingly sacrifice themselves."

Greene continued by blaming the administration's military campaign for the deaths, adding, "They were killed because of the war you, Trump, and the admin, are waging on behalf of a foreign country, Israel." She added, "You mean their deaths fuel your bloodlust for a senseless war."

In a separate post, Greene also expressed sympathy for the families of the service members while again calling for a change in US policy.

"I'm praying for the families and friends of those two fallen soldiers and for the third missing soldier. This should not be happening. President Trump needs to bring our troops home and stop this senseless America last war!!!"

Lawmakers mourn troops killed in Jordan

CENTCOM announced earlier on Saturday that two US service members were killed while defending against Iranian ballistic missile and drone attacks in Jordan. The military also said one additional service member remains missing.

According to CENTCOM, four American service members were medically evacuated to hospitals in Jordan and later discharged, while other personnel who sustained minor injuries returned to duty.

The military said it would withhold the identities of those killed until their families had been notified. The deaths prompted condolences from lawmakers across the political spectrum.

House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, Senator Rick Scott, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, and several other elected officials offered prayers and support for the fallen service members, their families, and the missing soldier.

Rep Abe Hamadeh said he was "heartbroken" by the deaths of two American soldiers who had defended US and partner forces during the attack, while Rep Nancy Mace called the news "devastating" and urged Americans to pray for the missing service member and the affected families.

Some Democratic lawmakers paired their condolences with renewed criticism of US policy toward Iran.

Senator Andy Kim said his "heart is with the families" of the fallen troops while calling for American forces to be brought "out of harm's way." Rep Melanie Stansbury said the service members were killed in "a war that never should have happened in the first place."