U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth faced off with Democratic members of Congress for the second consecutive day, rejecting claims that the Iran conflict was initiated without proof of an immediate danger and managed without a clear plan. The Senate Armed Services Committee meeting, lasting three hours, largely revisited the familiar stances of both Republican and Democratic parties on the matter, Hegseth’s leadership, and President Donald Trump’s utilization of the U.S. military.
In his initial remarks, Hegseth criticized Democratic legislators as “reckless naysayers” and “defeatists from the cheap seats” for failing to acknowledge the accomplishments of the U.S. military against Iran. He praised Trump for taking bold actions to prevent Iran from attaining nuclear weapons and emphasized the President’s negotiating skills in achieving favorable outcomes.
During the hearing, Democrats grilled Hegseth on his initiatives to transform military culture, U.S. assistance to Ukraine, and the necessity for Trump to seek congressional approval for the conflict. Hegseth, now referred to as the war secretary under the current administration, asserted that the ceasefire extended the deadline for obtaining such authorization.
Although Hegseth garnered solid support from Republicans, a few GOP senators inquired about the removal of a senior Army general and sought assurances on efforts to minimize civilian casualties. The session primarily focused on deliberating the Trump administration’s proposed 2027 military budget, aiming to elevate defense spending to a historic $1.5 trillion US. Hegseth and Gen. Dan Caine, Chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, emphasized the importance of enhancing drone capabilities, missile defense systems, and naval assets.
Senator Jack Reed, the leading Democrat on the committee, contended that the conflict with Iran had left the U.S. in a more vulnerable strategic position, highlighting American casualties, damaged equipment, and the ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz impacting global oil prices. Reed criticized Hegseth for dismissing top military officials and neglecting the contributions of women and minorities in the armed forces.
Responding to allegations of personal gain from the war, Hegseth vehemently denied any financial involvement, stating he did not engage in defense-related investments before the conflict. The hearing also discussed civilian casualties in the Iran war and the Pentagon’s reduction of a designated office to prevent such incidents.
Despite facing scrutiny from Democrats, Hegseth received a warmer reception from Republicans, including Sen. Roger Wicker, who praised Trump’s actions to address Iran’s military capabilities and lauded the proposed 2027 budget for its strategic initiatives. Republican Senator Deb Fischer commended Hegseth’s emphasis on nuclear deterrence and the development of the Golden Dome missile defense system.
Amid debates over civilian deaths and oversight of military actions in Iran, Democrats failed to pass resolutions requiring Trump to seek congressional approval for the conflict. The administration is reportedly engaged in discussions with lawmakers regarding the statutory 60-day deadline for congressional authorization or a potential extension.