Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced sharp questioning from Democratic lawmakers during a nearly six-hour hearing, his first under oath since Iran military operations began. The encounter centered on the administration's Iran strategy, with legislators pressing Hegseth on military objectives, potential escalation risks, and congressional authorization for any expanded conflict.
Hegseth defended the Pentagon's posture as defensive and measured, arguing current operations protect US interests and regional allies. Democrats challenged the scope of authority cited for military actions and demanded clarity on what circumstances might trigger broader military engagement with Iran.
The lengthy hearing reflected deep partisan divisions over Middle East policy. Republicans generally supported the administration's approach, while Democrats sought assurances that any further military action would require congressional approval rather than executive action alone.
Hegseth, confirmed as Defense Secretary earlier this year, has faced scrutiny over various statements and past conduct, but the hearing focused primarily on operational and strategic questions tied to Iran. The administration has characterized its Iran actions as responses to specific threats and attacks on US personnel and assets, though critics argue the messaging has been inconsistent about long-term objectives.
The hearing underscores Congress's ongoing struggle to reassert oversight of military deployments and war powers, an issue that has festered across multiple administrations.