US Defense Secretary Hegseth Testifies on Iran War Costs and Budget Request

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth testified before Congress on April 29 regarding the ongoing US-Israel conflict with Iran.

This marked his first public hearing on the war since it began on February 28.

During the testimony, Pentagon officials revealed that the war has cost the United States approximately $25 billion so far.

The majority of these expenses have been attributed to munitions, deployment of additional assets to the Middle East, and equipment losses.

Hegseth defended the Trump administration's war policy and the Pentagon's request for a $1.45 trillion defense budget, representing a 40% increase from the previous year.

The hearing included tense exchanges with lawmakers, particularly over the war's long-term goals and the nuclear threat posed by Iran.

Fighting in the conflict has largely paused since April 8, although the US continues to enforce a naval blockade on the Strait of Hormuz.

President Trump has indicated that attacks may resume if ceasefire negotiations do not progress.

The testimony also highlighted concerns about Iran's internal crackdown on dissent, with the UN human rights chief condemning executions and arrests linked to the conflict and protests.

Hegseth faced questioning over contradictory statements about the status of Iran's nuclear program, with some lawmakers pressing for clarity on the war's objectives.

The Pentagon's acting comptroller, Jules Hurst III, confirmed the $25 billion cost estimate but did not specify whether it included damage to US military bases or replenishment of weapons stockpiles.

Reports suggest the administration may seek an additional $200 billion from Congress to support the war effort, though no formal request has been made yet.

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