US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth faced sharp questioning from Democratic and independent senators at the Senate Armed Services Committee on 1 May, as deep divisions erupted over the ongoing Iran war, civilian casualties, and a proposed $1.5 trillion defence budget. The hearing laid bare Washington's fractured consensus on military strategy and the economic toll of the conflict.

Reed Leads the Charge

Ranking Member Jack Reed opened the attack, accusing the administration of entering an "unwise" conflict without a clear strategy. "Today, our nation is in a war strategic position," Reed said, pointing to casualties, damaged infrastructure, and economic fallout. He warned that the administration's claims of victory were "dangerously exaggerated."

Hegseth rejected the criticism outright. "Our military objectives have been stunningly effective," he said, arguing that Iran's defence capabilities had been significantly degraded. The exchange immediately set the tone for a contentious session.

Economic Fallout and Civilian Casualties

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said Americans were "furious" about the war's economic impact, citing rising fuel and food prices. "How much more are we asking the American people to pay for this war?" she asked. Hegseth pushed back, framing the mission as essential to counter Iran's nuclear ambitions. "What is the cost of a nuclear-armed Iran?" he responded.

Gillibrand also questioned reports of strikes hitting schools and hospitals, pressing Hegseth on safeguards for civilians. Hegseth insisted the US military "never targets civilians" and takes extensive measures to minimise harm. The exchange reflected broader unease about rules of engagement as the conflict has expanded in scope.

Strategic Concerns and the Strait of Hormuz

Senator Mark Kelly raised concerns about the scale of military operations and the strain on US weapons stockpiles, noting that thousands of strikes had been carried out. "This war is stuck," Kelly said, adding that the Strait of Hormuz remained closed and that it was "not clear… what the goal of this war is." Hegseth said the military had achieved its objectives and was rapidly rebuilding capacity, though he offered no specific timeline.

Legal Questions and the War Powers Resolution

Senator Tim Kaine raised legal concerns, citing the War Powers Resolution and asking whether the administration would seek formal congressional authorisation for the conflict. Hegseth deferred to the White House, saying a ceasefire meant the "60-day clock pauses or stops" — a response critics argued sidestepped the constitutional question entirely.

The $1.5 Trillion Budget Under Scrutiny

The proposed $1.5 trillion defence budget drew pointed scepticism. Kelly questioned whether the figure was justified, suggesting it appeared "pulled out of thin air." Hegseth countered that it was the result of a "highly rigorous process" reflecting global threats and years of underinvestment.

Defence comptroller Jules Hurst confirmed an initial war cost estimate of $25 billion, though several senators argued the true figure could be far higher. Throughout the hearing, Joint Chiefs Chairman Dan Caine largely avoided political disputes, emphasising his role in providing "clear and candid, nonpartisan military advice."

The confrontations come as the US simultaneously navigates rising tensions with China and Russia, raising broader questions about the sustainability of long-term military commitments abroad. How Washington resolves these divisions — on Iran, on spending, and on constitutional authority — will likely shape US defence posture for years to come.