Letter: Defend the Constitution, not religious doctrine

Published 8:00 pm Saturday, March 7, 2026

According to complaints, some military commanders allegedly told troops that the war with Iran was “part of God’s divine plan,” and that the president had been “anointed by Jesus” to trigger events leading to Armageddon.

In response, 30 members of Congress, including Rep. Suzanne Bonamici of Oregon, and Reps. Pramila Jayapal and Emily Randall of Washington, have asked the Inspector General to investigate these reports.

Their letter asks the Inspector General to determine “whether military commanders or other officers have made statements to subordinates asserting that U.S. military operations against Iran are part of a religious prophecy or divine plan, and if so, where such communications originated within the chain of command,” among other things.

The U.S. military exists to defend the Constitution, not to advance religious doctrine. Every officer swears an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the U.S.

Department of Defense policy requires commanders to avoid even the appearance of endorsing a particular religion in official settings to protect the religious freedom of service members. The armed forces include Americans of many faiths, and those with no religious affiliation, serving together.

The Inspector General should investigate promptly. Those who defend our country and swear to uphold the Constitution deserve nothing less.

SUSAN MARMADUKE

Astoria