WASHINGTON: US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman General Dan Caine appeared before the House Armed Services Committee, where they briefed lawmakers on ongoing military operations, strategic priorities, and defence funding.
During the hearing, General Dan Caine said that US forces had successfully achieved operational objectives during recent conflicts and continue to face and manage all battlefield challenges effectively.
He emphasized that military leaders are providing factual, necessary advice rather than what policymakers may want to hear, underscoring the importance of principle-based military counsel.
Secretary Hegseth stated that the US is working to strengthen national defence capabilities and ensure long-term security. He highlighted that President Donald Trump’s proposed $1.5 trillion defense budget reflects urgent national security needs and aims to protect the country from all potential threats.
Hegseth said the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget underscores a significant investment in military readiness, modernization, and force protection.
He added that the defensc strategy also focuses on expanding employment opportunities within the Department of Defense, with an estimated 70,000 new jobs expected to be created.
He further noted that US forces have been strengthened in both capability and readiness, expressing pride in the military personnel serving the country. According to him, service members’ salaries are being increased by 7 percent as part of broader welfare measures.
The Secretary also said the Pentagon is restructuring its administrative framework to improve efficiency while prioritizing advanced defense systems and troop welfare. He added that investment in the defense sector is crucial for maintaining US global security leadership.
Referring to Iran, Hegseth said he welcomes discussion on the conflict and reiterated that President Trump is committed to ensuring Iran does not acquire nuclear weapons.
He described the ongoing situation as a survival-level challenge, stating that the conflict has been ongoing for two months.
