US Defense Chief Discusses Iran War Costs and Strategy Amid Congressional Hearing
During a US congressional hearing on the fiscal year 2027 military budget, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth addressed ongoing tensions with Iran. He declined to reveal specific next steps for US military operations but confirmed that ceasefire conditions are being met while negotiations continue. Hegseth also noted that Project Freedom, guiding commercial ships in the Persian Gulf, could be restarted upon presidential request. Pentagon financial inspector Jules Hurst reported that the cost of Operation 'Wrath of the Zealots' has risen to approximately $29 billion due to equipment repairs and operational expenses. Hegseth rejected claims of critical ammunition shortages, attributing production delays to previous administrations and aid to Ukraine, despite bipartisan concerns from lawmakers like Ken Calvert and Betty McCollum regarding budget transparency and resource allocation. The hearing highlighted significant friction between the administration and Congress over the financial and logistical burdens of the conflict with Iran.
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