The New York Times is facing widespread ridicule after accusing Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth of “sexism” over a common military phrase used to praise American service members following the successful U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities Saturday night.
During a press briefing alongside Joint Chiefs Chairman General Dan Caine, Hegseth highlighted the complexity and precision of the B-2 bomber operation, which originated from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri.
The stealth bombers targeted three of Iran’s most fortified nuclear sites, including the Fordow uranium enrichment complex, in a surprise strike now being hailed as a strategic success.
“Iran is calculating the reality that planes flew from the middle of America in MISSOURI overnight, completely undetected, over three of their most highly sensitive sites,” Hegseth stated. “And we were able to destroy nuclear capabilities.”
The phrase that drew criticism from New York Times contributor John Ismay came moments later, when Hegseth said, “Our boys in those bombers are on their way home right now.” Ismay flagged the comment in a live blog, labeling it sexist because B-2 bomber crews include both male and female pilots.
Critics across the political spectrum quickly dismissed the accusation as out of touch. Military veterans, journalists, and social media users pointed out that the phrase “our boys” has long been a common expression of respect for troops, not a literal exclusion of women. Others noted the irony of singling out gender terminology in the context of a high-stakes national security operation that successfully neutralized a key nuclear threat.
The controversy over Hegseth’s phrasing comes amid renewed calls from progressive Democrats to impeach President Trump over the operation. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) called the strike “a grave violation of the Constitution” and claimed it warranted removal from office.
Her post was met with swift pushback, with many highlighting her silence on similar unauthorized military actions under Democratic presidents.
Meanwhile, Democratic Senator John Fetterman broke with members of his party and offered support for the operation, saying, “Iran is the world’s leading sponsor of terrorism and cannot have nuclear capabilities. I’m grateful for and salute the finest military in the world.”
