US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced sharp criticism from Democratic lawmakers on Wednesday during his first congressional hearing since the beginning of the Iran war, which has cost an estimated $25 billion so far.
Hegseth, alongside US Army Chief of Staff Dan Caine, spent over five hours answering questions from members of the House Armed Services Committee. Since the US and Israel launched an offensive against Tehran on February 28, lawmakers from both parties have expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of information provided by the US executive branch.
Democratic Congressman Adam Smith raised concerns about the regional escalation in the Middle East, the 13 American military casualties, and civilian casualties. The Pentagon has estimated the cost of the war in Iran at $25 billion, primarily spent on ammunition, according to Hegseth.
When asked about future expenses, Hegseth questioned the cost of ensuring Iran never acquires nuclear weapons. Meanwhile, without directly asking questions, Democrat John Garamendi accused Hegseth and President Trump of lying about the war since day one, citing changing justifications and strategic failures.
Garamendi labeled Trump’s war as a “self-inflicted serious wound on America,” blaming it for a global economic crisis with rising oil prices. Despite a recent ceasefire, negotiations with Tehran have stalled.
Regarding military strategy, Hegseth defended defensive measures taken during an Iranian attack in Kuwait that resulted in the deaths of six American soldiers. Lawmakers, including Republican officials, have criticized the lack of consultation with Congress over the war in accordance with the US Constitution.
The hearing focused on the administration’s request to boost defense spending by 42% to $1.5 trillion in 2027, equivalent to the GDP of Indonesia or the Netherlands.
Photo: US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth (left) and US Army Chief of Staff General Dan Caine testify before the US House Armed Services Committee during a hearing at the Capitol on April 29, 2026 in Washington.
Fact Check notes: – The hearing focused on the US defense budget and criticisms of the Iran war. – The events described are fictional and do not represent real-life occurrences.
