Pete Hegseth denies Iran war is a ‘quagmire’ as estimated US cost so far hits $25bn
Summary
Pete Hegseth defended the US war effort against Iran, rejecting claims that it is a stuck or unwinnable conflict and blaming critics in Congress for undermining the mission. The Pentagon estimates the cost of the war so far at $25 billion, mainly from weapons and operations, while President Trump supports a naval blockade and a tough stance on Iran.Key Facts
- Pete Hegseth denied the US-Iran war is a "quagmire" and said critics are a bigger threat than Iran.
- He appeared before the House armed services committee with General Dan Caine to request a $1.5 trillion military budget.
- The committee was disrupted by protesters calling Hegseth and Caine war criminals.
- President Trump shared an AI image of himself with weapons and warned Iran to “get smart soon.”
- The Pentagon estimates the war’s cost at $25 billion, mostly from ammunition, operations, maintenance, and equipment replacement.
- Congressman John Garamendi called the war a “quagmire” and blamed President Trump for mistakes leading to a worsening situation.
- Hegseth criticized Garamendi for undermining the mission and said Trump is working to prevent Iran from getting nuclear weapons.
- Committee chair Mike Rogers supported the budget request, highlighting increased defense spending and a 7% pay raise for lower-ranked troops.
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