Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has come under heavy questioning in Congress as lawmakers examine the ongoing Iran war and the Pentagon’s proposed 2027 budget.
During hearings, Democratic lawmakers criticized the financial and strategic toll of the conflict, raising concerns about rising costs, unclear objectives, and reduced U.S. weapons stockpiles. Republican lawmakers largely focused on budget priorities and expressed general support for increased defense spending.
The proposed military budget stands at approximately $1.5 trillion and includes plans to expand investment in drones, missile defense systems, and naval forces. Military leaders, including Gen. Dan Caine, defended the need for these upgrades as essential to U.S. security and global readiness.
Lawmakers also questioned the administration about potential changes to U.S. troop deployments in Europe following comments by President Donald Trump suggesting possible reductions in Germany amid diplomatic tensions.
The hearings reflect deep political divisions in Washington over the Iran war, defense spending levels, and the future of U.S. military involvement overseas.
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