WASHINGTON — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth will testify before the House Armed Services Committee on April 29, 2026, to answer questions on the administration's 2027 military budget proposal and the war in Iran. It will be his first appearance before Congress since the Trump administration launched the war against Iran.

The administration's 2027 military budget proposal would boost defense spending to $1.5 trillion. The United States and Israel launched the war on February 28, 2026, without congressional oversight, and a ceasefire is now in place. House and Senate Democrats failed to pass multiple war power resolutions that would have required President Donald Trump to halt the conflict until Congress authorized further action.

During the conflict, a school was bombed, killing children, and Iranian drones penetrated U.S. defenses and killed or injured American troops. Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping corridor for the world's oil, and fuel prices have increased after the closure. The U.S. imposed a Navy blockade of Iranian shipping and deployed three aircraft carriers to the Middle East for the first time in more than 20 years. The war has resulted in a drawdown of critical U.S. munitions.

Hegseth has not taken public questioning from lawmakers about the war. He and Gen. Dan Caine held televised Pentagon briefings about the conflict, and Hegseth has mostly taken questions from conservative journalists. He has cited Bible passages to criticize mainstream news outlets.

Hegseth ousted Gen. Randy George, the Army's top uniformed officer, along with several other top generals, admirals and defense leaders.

"Tell us why. You know these are important positions. We are in a war posture with Iran." Sen. Thom Tillis said of the dismissals. "He may be able to clean it up, but on its face, you don't go through the number of highly reputable, senior-level officials, admirals and generals." Tillis added.

Rep. Austin Scott also addressed the removals. "I think the firing of Gen. George was an extreme disservice to the United States Army. And I think it was reckless conduct." he said. "Some of us are not through asking the questions about that." Scott added.