Pete Hegseth appeared before Congress this week for the first time since the United States entered the war with Iran, defending the administration’s actions while facing intense questioning from lawmakers over civilian casualties, military strategy, and the rising cost of the conflict.
Testifying during extended hearings before the House and Senate Armed Services Committees, Hegseth received strong backing from Republican lawmakers, many of whom praised his leadership and supported the administration’s handling of the war. However, some members of his own party raised concerns, including questions over his dismissal of a senior Army general, while others sought assurances that the Pentagon is doing enough to minimise civilian harm.
Democratic lawmakers, on the other hand, pressed the Defence Secretary on the humanitarian and financial impact of the conflict, citing reports of a school bombing that allegedly killed children, the depletion of key U.S. munitions, and concerns over the long-term sustainability of the military campaign.
“The biggest adversary we face at this point are the reckless naysayers and defeatist words of congressional Democrats and some Republicans,” Hegseth said, responding to critics during the hearings.
The sessions marked the first time a cabinet member under Donald Trump has publicly defended the war on Capitol Hill since military operations against Iran were launched without congressional approval two months ago.
Lawmakers also reviewed the administration’s proposed $1.5 trillion defence budget for 2027, which Pentagon officials say is necessary to strengthen U.S. military capabilities, including investments in drones, missile defence systems, and naval power.
While Hegseth described the war as a strategic success and evidence of strong leadership, his remarks suggested the conflict has lasted longer than initially expected, contradicting earlier projections that it would end within weeks.
The hearings underscore growing political divisions in Washington over U.S. foreign policy, as the war with Iran continues with no clear end in sight and increasing concern about its long-term implications.
