Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth appeared before Congress for the first time since the Trump administration began military operations against Iran. Lawmakers subjected him to intense questioning about the administration's strategy, objectives, and legal justifications for the conflict.
The hearing marked a critical moment for Hegseth as he defended the administration's Iran policy to a chamber divided along party lines. Congressional Democrats pressed him on whether the White House had sought proper authorization before initiating hostilities. Republicans largely supported the military action but sought clarification on its scope and duration.
Hegseth outlined the administration's rationale for the strikes against Iranian targets and military assets. He addressed concerns about potential escalation and regional destabilization. The Secretary faced demands for detailed briefings on intelligence assessments that prompted the military action.
The appearance underscored the tension between executive war powers and congressional oversight. Hegseth's testimony will likely influence ongoing debates over whether the administration should request formal authorization from Congress for sustained operations against Iran. The Pentagon chief must balance transparency with operational security as the conflict develops.