Hegseth Defends Iran War Before Congress

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defended the war against Iran before Congress, rejecting claims that it is a "quagmire" with no clear end in sight.

Hegseth described Democratic criticism as irresponsible and said it amounted to supporting hostile propaganda, responding to questions from members of Congress who pointed to rising economic costs and the uncertain course of the conflict.

The war, which the US has been waging alongside Israel since the end of February, has contributed to rising fuel prices and a drop in public support. According to a Reuters/Ipsos poll, about a third of Americans approve of it.

Hegseth stressed that the operation has a clear objective and should not be questioned, and urged critics not to undermine the morale of the military.

(reuters, mja)