Hegseth lobbies Senate for defense billions – anti-war protests interrupt hearing

In substance, Hegseth put the cost of the US engagement in Iran at roughly $37.5 billion, or about €32.82 billion. According to his figures, this sum covers projected expenditures through September 30. Compared with the last official estimate, this represents an increase of nearly eight billion dollars, the Secretary said.

Costs and increase since the last estimate

The hearing took place against the backdrop of an already tense security situation. Earlier this year, the United States and Israel carried out airstrikes against Iran on February 28. In April, Washington and Tehran agreed on a ceasefire and a framework document for further negotiations. In recent days, however, this understanding has been overshadowed by mutual attacks.

In this context, the US government reiterated its stated goal of ensuring that the Islamic Republic never acquires nuclear weapons. At the same time, there is growing concern in Washington that the conflict could escalate further.

Background: From ceasefire to escalation

Hegseth and Caine appeared together before the committee to lay out the justification for the additional funds being requested. Hegseth pointed to the geopolitical importance of a robust defense capability and argued that the record so far of the military operations underscores the need for further investment.

Senators from both parties asked questions about the cost trajectory, the duration of the deployment, and the compatibility of the ongoing operations with the diplomatic channels that had been opened in April. Some lawmakers expressed concern that additional billions could be spent without a clearly defined end to the violence.

Reactions in Congress and on the street

The protest action in the committee room made clear that the Iran war has reached the political debate in Washington across party lines. While the hearing continued after the interruptions, demonstrators outside the Capitol announced further actions should the conflict continue.

Looking ahead to the coming weeks, Hegseth indicated that the US government would continue to brief Congress regularly on the situation. It remained unclear whether, alongside the defense budget, a separate package of measures to finance future stages of negotiations would also be submitted.