Defense Secretary Hegseth Faces Final Capitol Hill Hearing Amid Israel-Iran Conflict Escalation

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is set to appear before Congress for his final hearing amid increasing scrutiny over his handling of Pentagon affairs, including his use of a Signal chat to share sensitive military plans, opposition to women in combat roles, and controversial shifts in defense funding priorities. The hearing is expected to focus heavily on the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, with the U.S. providing defensive support to Israel and positioning military assets to respond to potential regional escalation. President Donald Trump has indicated possible increased U.S. involvement in the conflict, while lawmakers continue to demand more transparency on the administration's proposed $1 trillion defense budget, which includes significant investments such as the Golden Dome defense system. Hegseth has emphasized a defensive posture in the region aimed at protecting American personnel and pursuing peace, but his tenure has been marked by tensions with Congress over budget details and his management decisions. Additionally, recent deployments of the National Guard to Los Angeles for protest control have overshadowed some of his testimony. The hearings also coincide with Trump’s broader diplomatic engagements, including meetings with foreign officials and ambassadorial appointments.