U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth faced off against Democratic members of Congress for a second consecutive day on Thursday, refuting accusations that the Iran conflict lacked evidence of an immediate threat and was executed without a clear plan. The Senate Armed Services Committee’s three-hour session mostly revisited the well-established stances of both Republicans and Democrats regarding the war, Hegseth’s leadership, and President Donald Trump’s utilization of the U.S. military.
Hegseth, in his initial remarks, criticized Democratic legislators as “reckless naysayers” and “defeatists from the cheap seats” for neglecting to acknowledge the numerous accomplishments of the U.S. military against Iran. He lauded Trump for his bold actions to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and emphasized the administration’s negotiation prowess.
Democratic lawmakers grilled Hegseth on his initiatives to transform military culture, U.S. aid to Ukraine, and whether Trump would seek congressional approval for the conflict. The war secretary, as designated by the Trump administration, stated that the ongoing ceasefire extends the timeline for securing such approval.
Despite some inquiries from Republican senators about the removal of a senior Army general and ensuring the protection of civilians, Hegseth garnered strong support from the Republican camp. The hearing focused on the Trump administration’s proposed 2027 military budget, which aims to increase defense spending to a record $1.5 trillion.
Senator Jack Reed, the ranking Democrat on the committee, contended that the war has left the U.S. in a weaker strategic position, with casualties among American troops and infrastructure damage. Reed highlighted ongoing challenges, such as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and Iran’s retention of enriched uranium.
Republicans, led by Senator Roger Wicker, praised Trump’s efforts in neutralizing Iran’s military capabilities and pushing for a lasting resolution to the conflict. They endorsed the proposed 2027 budget, citing its importance in safeguarding American interests.
Discussions also centered on civilian casualties in the war and the Pentagon’s decision to reduce a specialized office aimed at minimizing such incidents. Hegseth defended the Pentagon’s commitment to minimizing civilian casualties, rebuffing allegations of negligence.
Democrats have criticized the conflict as an expensive venture lacking congressional authorization or oversight. Attempts to pass war powers resolutions to halt the conflict until further congressional approval have been unsuccessful. The War Powers Act’s deadline for congressional authorization looms, prompting questions about the Trump administration’s course of action.
Senator Tim Kaine queried Hegseth on Trump’s intention to seek congressional approval or an extension, to which Hegseth asserted that the ceasefire halts the countdown. Discrepancies exist among lawmakers regarding the interpretation of the law, with ongoing discussions between the Trump administration and Congress to address the statutory timeline.
