US Defence Secretary Faces Iran War Questions
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth faced sharp questioning from lawmakers over the cost and direction of the Iran war, as he defended a major Pentagon budget request by saying it reflected the “urgency of the moment.”
US Defence Secretary Defends Pentagon Budget
Hegseth described the proposed $1.5 trillion defence budget as a historic war-fighting request, arguing that the United States needs urgent investment to respond to current security challenges. He told lawmakers that the request was shaped by the ongoing conflict with Iran and wider concerns over military readiness.
He also criticised previous defence spending levels, saying the US military requires sustained funding to maintain deterrence, replenish weapons and support operations.
Iran War Cost Reaches $25 Billion
During the hearing, Pentagon officials said the Iran war has cost the US military about $25 billion so far, with munitions making up a major share of the expense. Lawmakers pressed Hegseth on whether additional funding would be required and how much the conflict could ultimately cost American taxpayers.
Questions also focused on replacement weapons, damage to military assets and the economic impact of the conflict. Hegseth defended the spending by arguing that the cost of allowing Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon would be far greater.
Lawmakers Question US Strategy On Iran
Democratic lawmakers challenged Hegseth on whether the US was winning the war and whether the administration had a clear plan for ending the conflict. Hegseth said the military campaign had been an “astounding” success and insisted the war would not drag on for years.
The hearing came as the US and Iran observe a temporary ceasefire while efforts continue to secure a permanent peace agreement. The debate has intensified scrutiny over the administration’s Iran strategy, defence spending and the long-term cost of the conflict.
