Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has authorized National Guard members deployed in Washington, D.C., to carry their service-issued weapons. This decision marks a significant change in the Pentagon's previous guidance regarding the arming of National Guard troops.

According to a defense official, the directive is part of a broader mission to address crime in the nation’s capital. “At the direction of the Secretary of Defense, JTF-DC members supporting the mission to lower the crime rate in our Nation’s capital will soon be on mission with their service-issued weapons, consistent with their mission and training,” the official stated.

The D.C. National Guard is committed to ensuring the safety of the District and its residents. The official emphasized that the Interim Commanding General of the D.C. National Guard has the authority to adjust the force posture in coordination with local and federal law enforcement agencies.

The authorization comes as more than 1,900 National Guard troops from various states, including West Virginia, South Carolina, Mississippi, Ohio, Louisiana, and Tennessee, have been called to assist in the mission. These troops are currently being processed to support the D.C. National Guard.

While the National Guard can assist law enforcement, they are not authorized to make arrests. Hegseth expressed his support for the troops, stating he would ensure they have the necessary resources to protect themselves and the citizens of D.C.

President Donald Trump recently visited National Guard personnel, urging them to be strong and effective in their duties. Earlier this month, he announced a crackdown on crime in Washington, which includes the National Guard's involvement in D.C. police operations. The initial order called for 800 members of the D.C. National Guard to be activated, with additional troops deployed from several states, bringing the total force in the district to nearly 2,000 service members.