U.S. Defense Secretary 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 tough questioning from lawmakers over civilian casualties, military strategy, and the rising cost of the conflict.
Testifying during lengthy 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 surrounding his dismissal of a senior Army general, while others sought assurances that the Pentagon is taking adequate steps to minimise civilian harm.
Democratic lawmakers pressed the Defense Secretary over the humanitarian and financial implications of the war, citing the bombing of a school that reportedly killed children, the depletion of critical U.S. munitions, and the overall 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, pushing back against 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 the administration launched military operations against Iran without congressional approval two months ago.
Lawmakers also examined the administration’s proposed $1.5 trillion defense budget for 2027, which Pentagon officials argued is necessary to strengthen U.S. military capabilities, including investments in drones, missile defence systems, and naval forces.
While Hegseth framed the war as a strategic success and a demonstration of decisive leadership, his remarks suggested the conflict has lasted longer than initially anticipated, contrasting with earlier projections that it would be concluded within weeks.
The hearings highlight deepening political divisions in Washington over the direction of U.S. foreign policy, as the war with Iran continues with no clear resolution and growing concerns about its long-term consequences.