Hegseth faces bipartisan grilling about weapons drawdown during the Iran war
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced bipartisan criticism in congressional hearings over the $29 billion cost of the Iran war, including concerns about depleted U.S. munitions stockpiles and strained relations with NATO allies, while insisting the Pentagon has plans for escalation or troop withdrawal. Lawmakers from both parties questioned the administration’s strategy, with Republicans emphasizing the importance of allied support and Democrats pressing for clarity on troop reductions.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth testified before House and Senate defense subcommittees Tuesday, where lawmakers grilled him over the Trump administration’s handling of the Iran war, its financial burden, and its impact on U.S. military readiness. The cost of the conflict has risen to $29 billion, with $24 billion allocated to replacing munitions and repairing equipment, according to Pentagon officials. Hegseth dismissed claims of depleted stockpiles, stating that the U.S. maintains sufficient missile defense systems and other weapons for current and future conflicts. However, he acknowledged ongoing efforts to increase production. Republican lawmakers criticized the administration’s strained relations with NATO allies, with Senate Appropriations Chairman Mitch McConnell warning that European nations perceive reduced U.S. influence. Oklahoma Rep. Tom Cole echoed concerns, arguing that ‘American power is most effective when exercised with like-minded nations.’ Democrats and Republicans alike pressed Hegseth on the future of U.S. involvement. Minnesota Rep. Betty McCollum asked about plans to withdraw troops if Congress advances stalled efforts to end the war. Hegseth responded that the Pentagon has contingency plans for escalation, withdrawal, or asset redistribution but declined to disclose specifics. The hearings, spanning four hours, also reviewed the Trump administration’s $1.5 trillion 2027 military budget proposal. Lawmakers expressed unease over the war’s stalemate and its political repercussions amid rising fuel prices, which could affect midterm elections. California Rep. Ken Calvert raised concerns about whether the U.S. is adequately preparing for high-intensity conflicts given the current drawdown of munitions. Hegseth reiterated that the military remains prepared but stopped short of addressing broader strategic questions.
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