Hegseth's Conflicting Statements and Evasions Drain Lawmakers' Patience and Support
During a rare Senate hearing on July 22, 2026, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced bipartisan frustration over shifting rationales and lack of a clear strategy for the U.S. war on Iran (Operation Epic Fury). Senators from both parties pressed Hegseth to defend his previous statements, which included claims of 'overwhelming victory' and that Iran's nuclear capability had been 'obliterated.' Hegseth responded evasively, refusing to give yes-or-no answers. The hearing highlighted collapsing public support for the war, with an Ipsos poll showing 68% of the public believe it is 'not worth fighting' and a Politico poll indicating only one-third of MAGA voters approve—a 13-point drop in two months. Lawmakers expressed concern that the administration's inconsistent messaging undermines credibility and makes it harder to justify the $1.5 trillion defense budget request. Even Trump ally Sen. John Kennedy shouted for 'straight answers.' The article underscores growing political and public fatigue with the costly conflict.
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