US Defense Chief Pete Hegseth Faces Intense Senate Scrutiny Over Iran War Costs and Strategy

United States Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Cain appeared before the Senate Armed Services Committee for a second day of public questioning. This marked their first public congressional hearing since the US and Israel launched military operations against Iran on February 28.

The hearing highlighted the enormous financial cost of the conflict, with Pentagon officials disclosing at least $25 billion spent so far. Hegseth defended the war effort amid criticism over depleted munitions stockpiles, civilian casualties, and the legal interpretation of the War Powers Act.

Pentagon Defends Munitions Stockpile Despite Reports of Depletion

Hegseth insisted that US munitions stockpiles remain "in good shape," countering concerns raised by lawmakers and media reports. The New York Times recently reported that the US has used a significant number of expensive long-range stealth and Patriot interceptor missiles, forcing the military to divert weapons from other regions.

Pentagon officials confirmed the $25 billion expenditure since the war began but did not clarify if this figure includes damage to US assets in the Middle East.

Russia’s Role in Supporting Iran Acknowledged but Details Sparse

General Dan Cain acknowledged that Russia has provided some assistance to Iran during the conflict, though he refrained from elaborating in the public hearing. Historically, Russia and Iran have exchanged weapons and political support, with recent statements from Russian President Vladimir Putin reaffirming backing for Tehran.

Controversial Interpretation of War Powers Act Raises Eyebrows

Hegseth claimed that the 60-day War Powers Act deadline pauses during a ceasefire or pause in fighting, a novel interpretation that contradicts the statute’s explicit language. The US and Iran have mostly paused attacks since April 8, but the US continues its naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, with threats of renewed attacks.

I don’t believe the statute would support that.—Senator Tim Kaine

Civilian Oversight Rollbacks and Civilian Casualties Questioned

Senators raised concerns about Pentagon cutbacks to offices responsible for civilian harm oversight, including a 90% reduction in the Civilian Protection Center of Excellence. Questions were also posed about civilian deaths in Iran, such as a US strike on a girls’ school in Minab.

What is your response to targeting that has resulted in the destruction of schools, hospitals, civilian places? Why did you cut by 90 percent the division that’s supposed to help you not target civilians?—Senator Kirsten Gillibrand

Hegseth maintained that the Pentagon still has all necessary resources to protect civilians.

Democratic Lawmakers Challenge Hegseth’s Counsel to President Trump

Senator Jack Reed, the top Democrat on the committee, questioned whether Hegseth has been telling President Trump what he wants to hear rather than what he needs to hear. Reed warned that Hegseth’s approach could cause lasting harm to the military.

I am concerned that you have been telling the president what he wants to hear, instead of what he needs to hear.—Senator Jack Reed

Hegseth responded by criticizing lawmakers, especially Democrats, accusing them of being reckless naysayers and defeatists who aid US enemies.

Looking Ahead: Uncertain Path Amid Tentative Ceasefire Talks

With a tentative pause in fighting and stalled ceasefire negotiations, the Pentagon’s next steps remain unclear. The US continues its naval blockade and maintains pressure on Iran, while lawmakers debate the legal and strategic implications of the ongoing conflict.

The Senate hearings underscore the deep divisions in Congress over the war’s justification, costs, and oversight, signaling a contentious road ahead for US policy in the Middle East.