Congress Intensifies Scrutiny of Defense Secretary Hegseth Amid Ongoing Iran War

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth was grilled by senators for a second consecutive day over his management of the Iran war. The hearings followed a nearly six-hour session before the House Armed Services Committee, where Hegseth faced inquiries from both Democrats and Republicans. Senators pressed Hegseth on the war's escalating financial costs, reportedly reaching into the billions, and sought a comprehensive breakdown of military spending. Lawmakers also sought clarity on casualty figures and the Pentagon's strategies to mitigate risks to U.S. personnel. Hegseth defended the administration's strategy, asserting that the U.S. military presence in Iran is critical for national security. The senators questioned Hegseth on how the Pentagon plans to replenish diminishing stockpiles of critical weaponry without compromising other military commitments.