Hegseth faces new questioning from Congress on the Iran war
AP News • • nation
Key Points:
- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faces renewed questioning from lawmakers, including some Republicans, over the ongoing Iran war and its lack of congressional approval during hearings on the Trump administration’s $1.5 trillion 2027 military budget proposal.
- Concerns center on the war’s stalemate, its impact on military funding, weapons stockpiles, and rising fuel prices affecting Republican political prospects ahead of midterm elections.
- Lawmakers such as Sen. Susan Collins and Sen. Lisa Murkowski have expressed the need for a defined strategy and congressional authorization to clarify the war’s objectives and limits.
- Hegseth has argued that the ceasefire paused the 60-day War Powers Act deadline for congressional approval, a position facing criticism from Democrats.
- The hearings will also focus on the necessity for increased procurement of drones, warships, and missile defense systems depleted during the conflict.