U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth faced off with Democratic members of Congress for a second consecutive day on Thursday, pushing back against allegations from senators that the Iran conflict was initiated without clear evidence of an imminent threat and lacking a coherent strategy.
During the three-hour session of the Senate Armed Services Committee, discussions mainly revolved around the familiar stances of both Republicans and Democrats regarding the war, Hegseth’s leadership, and President Donald Trump’s utilization of the U.S. military.
In his initial remarks, Hegseth criticized Democratic lawmakers as “reckless naysayers” and “defeatists from the cheap seats” for disregarding the achievements of the U.S. military against the Islamic Republic.
Hegseth emphasized Trump’s resolve in preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon and thwarting their nuclear threats, attributing these actions to Trump’s negotiation skills.
Democratic senators probed Hegseth on his efforts to reform military culture, U.S. aid to Ukraine, and the necessity of congressional approval for the war. Hegseth, now referred to as the war secretary under the Trump administration, stated that the ceasefire extends the timeline for seeking such approval.
Despite facing inquiries from a few Republican senators regarding the dismissal of a top Army general and assurances on minimizing civilian casualties, Hegseth garnered solid support from the Republican camp.
The hearing primarily revolved around discussions on the Trump administration’s proposed 2027 military budget, aimed at increasing defense spending to a historic $1.5 trillion. Hegseth and Gen. Dan Caine, Chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, emphasized the critical need for enhanced drone capabilities, missile defense systems, and warships.
Senator Jack Reed, the ranking Democrat on the committee, argued that the war has left the U.S. in a strategically disadvantaged position, citing casualties and equipment losses. Reed highlighted ongoing challenges in the region, including the closed Strait of Hormuz leading to soaring fuel prices and Iran’s retention of enriched uranium.
Reed criticized Hegseth for dismissing top military leaders and alleged a failure to acknowledge the contributions of women and minorities in the military. Hegseth defended his decisions, stating they were based on performance criteria and criticized the previous focus on social engineering within the Pentagon.
The proceedings also delved into allegations of personal profiteering by Hegseth from the war, with Senator Elizabeth Warren questioning his investment activities related to defense funds prior to the conflict, to which Hegseth denied any involvement.
Republican senators, led by Sen. Roger Wicker, welcomed Hegseth with a more positive reception, commending Trump’s efforts in addressing security challenges and supporting the proposed 2027 budget. Senator Deb Fischer praised Hegseth’s emphasis on nuclear deterrence and the development of missile defense systems.
The session also addressed concerns about civilian casualties in the Iran conflict and the Pentagon’s decision to reduce a specialized office tasked with minimizing such incidents. Hegseth reiterated the Pentagon’s commitment to preventing civilian deaths, despite accusations of U.S. involvement in a deadly strike on an Iranian school.
Discussions also touched on the failure of Democrats to pass war powers resolutions to restrain Trump’s actions in the conflict. The War Powers Act stipulates a deadline for Congressional authorization, with Sen. Tim Kaine questioning Hegseth on seeking approval or an extension, to which Hegseth cited the ceasefire as a pause in the timeline.
Efforts are underway within the Trump administration to address the 60-day deadline under the War Powers Act through ongoing discussions with lawmakers.