US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is set to testify before Congress on Wednesday for the first time since the Trump administration launched its war against Iran, a move strongly criticised by Democrats as an expensive conflict carried out without congressional approval.
The hearing, organised by the House Armed Services Committee, will mainly focus on the administration’s proposed 2027 military budget, which seeks to raise defense spending to a record $1.5 trillion. Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine are expected to underline the need for increased investment in drones, missile defence systems and naval forces.
However, Democratic lawmakers are expected to shift attention to the growing cost of the Iran war, the depletion of key US weapons stockpiles and reports of civilian casualties, including children killed in a school bombing. Questions may also be raised about the military’s readiness to counter Iranian drone attacks, some of which reportedly breached US defenses and caused American casualties.
Although a ceasefire is now in place, the US and Israel launched the conflict on Feb 28 without formal approval from Congress. Efforts by Democrats to pass resolutions requiring President Donald Trump to halt the war until authorised by lawmakers have so far failed.
Republicans, while largely backing Trump’s leadership during the conflict, have also expressed concern about its duration. They cite Iran’s nuclear ambitions and the risks of withdrawing too soon, but some within the party are looking ahead to possible votes that could test support for the president if the war continues.
Tensions have also affected global energy markets. Iran’s move to shut down the Strait of Hormuz has driven up fuel prices, adding political pressure on Republicans ahead of upcoming elections. In response, the US has imposed a naval blockade on Iranian shipping and increased its military presence in the region, deploying three aircraft carriers to the Middle East for the first time in over two decades.
Despite ongoing tensions, both sides remain at an impasse. Trump is unlikely to accept Tehran’s proposal to reopen the strait in exchange for ending the war, lifting the blockade and delaying nuclear negotiations.
Hegseth has so far avoided direct questioning from lawmakers, though he and Caine have held televised Pentagon briefings. His appearance before Congress this week, including another session with the Senate Armed Services Committee on Thursday, is expected to be more challenging.
Lawmakers are also likely to question recent leadership changes within the military. Hegseth has removed several senior officials, including Army chief Gen. Randy George, along with other top generals and defence figures.
Republican Sen. Thom Tillis said the dismissals raised serious concerns, noting the importance of stability in key military positions during wartime. He admitted the developments have made him reconsider his earlier support for Hegseth.
Meanwhile, Rep. Austin Scott also criticised the removal of Gen. George, calling it a reckless decision that undermined the US Army.