U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth was questioned by both Republican and Democratic lawmakers on Tuesday regarding the Trump administration's strategy for the Iran war, the escalating $29 billion cost of the conflict, and the impact on U.S. weapons stockpiles [1]. The hearing, which lasted four hours, was part of the review of the Trump administration’s 2027 military budget proposal [1]. Hegseth softened his tone compared to previous hearings but faced increased criticism from his own party, particularly over the depletion of U.S. munitions and President Donald Trump’s criticism of NATO allies for not participating in the conflict [1].
Hegseth denied that munitions are depleted, stating, “That’s not true,” and assured lawmakers that the U.S. military has sufficient missile defense systems and munitions for the Iran war and future conflicts [1]. He also noted that the administration is working to ramp up weapons production [1]. Pentagon officials clarified that the Iran war’s cost has risen to about $29 billion, with approximately $24 billion allocated to replacing munitions and repairing equipment, and the remainder covering operational costs for deployed forces [1]. This figure is an increase from the $25 billion total reported nearly two weeks prior by Pentagon comptroller Jay Hurst, and does not include expenses for repairing or rebuilding damaged U.S. military sites in the region [1].
Republican lawmakers expressed concern about the Trump administration’s strained relations with traditional allies. Kentucky Sen. Mitch McConnell emphasized NATO’s importance, stating, “NATO is the most important military alliance in world history,” and noted that European countries perceive a reduction in U.S. influence, feeling “sort of on their own” [1]. President Trump has criticized NATO allies for not assisting in reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial shipping corridor, and announced plans to withdraw thousands of troops from Germany in the coming months [1].
Oklahoma Rep. Tom Cole, chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, argued that “America First has never meant American alone,” stressing that American power is most effective when exercised with like-minded nations [1].
CONCLUSION
The bipartisan scrutiny of Defense Secretary Hegseth highlights growing concerns over the financial and strategic costs of the Iran war, as well as the Trump administration’s approach to alliances. The rising $29 billion price tag and plans to withdraw troops from Germany signal significant shifts in U.S. defense policy, with lawmakers urging greater cooperation with allies. These developments are likely to have substantial implications for defense spending and international relations.