Defense Secretary Hegseth clashes with Democrats over Iran conflict strategy

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth faced questioning from Democratic senators on Tuesday about the United States' approach to the ongoing conflict with Iran. Senator Gary Peters asked whether the administration had a concrete plan to conclude the war, suggesting the country was in a weaker position than when hostilities began.

Hegseth responded that Democrats had delayed funding for the department and criticized what he described as partisan politics that hindered support for service members. He also claimed that previous administrations, including the current one, had neglected emerging defense technologies such as hypersonic weapons.

The exchange occurred as Congress considered the Department of War's budget for the 2027 fiscal year, amid continued tensions with Tehran over control of the Strait of Hormuz.