Hegseth asks the Senate for $80 billion as Washington weighs expanding strikes against Iran

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine presented the Trump administration’s strategy for the war with Iran to the Senate. Their testimony came as the Pentagon seeks additional funding to cover the costs of the conflict.

U.S. officials said the Department of Defense aims to secure around $80 billion to continue military operations and replenish weapons stocks, which have been significantly depleted by the fighting in recent months.

The Senate hearing was held amid intense tensions following the failure earlier this month of a ceasefire between Washington and Tehran. The collapse of the agreement led to the resumption of attacks and further losses among U.S. forces stationed in the region.

One of the most serious incidents was Iran’s strike on a United States military base in Jordan. Two American soldiers were killed, while another remains missing. It was the fourth attack in five days against U.S. forces in the Middle East.

Pentagon assessments indicate that Iran still possesses a substantial missile arsenal and has increased its ability to penetrate U.S. air defense systems. In addition to the fatalities, dozens of service members have been wounded and several helicopters have sustained damage.

At the same time, the U.S. administration is weighing the possibility of expanding military operations to underground nuclear facilities, bridges and Iranian energy infrastructure. Such a scenario is expected to spark debate in Congress over the legality and scope of the military intervention.

Reopening the Strait of Hormuz is another key issue. Its closure has driven up fuel prices and deepened concerns about the security of transport along maritime routes.

In the coming days, the U.S. Senate is expected to decide whether to approve the Pentagon’s request for additional funds, as concerns grow over the cost, strategy and duration of the war with Iran.