Hegseth faces questions about Iran in first congressional appearance since war began
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced intense questioning during his first congressional appearance since the start of the war with Iran, as Democrats challenged the justification, cost, and conduct of the conflict. Lawmakers raised concerns about the $25 billion price tag, depletion of U.S. munitions, civilian casualties, and the administration's shifting rationale for war. Hegseth defended the military campaign and his leadership decisions, including the removal of several top military officials, while accusing critics of undermining national security.
- ▪The war with Iran has cost $25 billion and led to a significant drawdown of U.S. military munitions, according to Pentagon figures presented to Congress.
- ▪Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz has driven up global oil prices, impacting U.S. consumers and creating political challenges for the administration.
- ▪Hegseth claimed U.S. strikes in 2025 obliterated Iran's nuclear facilities, contradicting the administration's earlier justification of an imminent nuclear threat.
- ▪Three U.S. aircraft carriers are deployed in the Middle East as part of a naval blockade against Iranian shipping, the first such deployment in over 20 years.
- ▪Hegseth has dismissed multiple top military leaders, including Gen. Randy George and Adm. Lisa Franchetti, citing the need for new leadership.
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National Hegseth faces questions about Iran in first congressional appearance since war began May 1, 20262:50 AM ET By The Associated Press Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth appears before a House Committee on Armed Services business meeting on the Department of Defense Fiscal Year 2027 on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, April 29, 2026, in Washington. Rod Lamkey Jr./AP hide caption toggle caption Rod Lamkey Jr./AP WASHINGTON — Making his first appearance before Congress since the Trump administration went to war against Iran, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced withering questioning Wednesday from skeptical Democrats over a costly conflict being waged without congressional approval.
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