US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth faced a fiery grilling from Democratic lawmakers on Wednesday, who accused him of waging an 'unauthorised war' in Iran. The tense exchange took place during a House Armed Services Committee hearing, where Democrats challenged the legality and constitutionality of recent US military actions in the region.
Hegseth Defends Actions
Hegseth defended the operations, arguing that they were necessary to protect American interests and allies. 'We are acting within the bounds of international law and with the full authority granted by the President,' he stated. However, Democrats were unconvinced, pointing to the lack of a formal declaration of war from Congress.
Democratic Criticism
Representative Adam Smith, the ranking Democrat on the committee, led the charge. 'This is an unauthorised war, plain and simple,' Smith declared. 'You have committed US forces to combat without the consent of the American people or their representatives.' Other Democrats echoed these sentiments, citing the War Powers Resolution and questioning the administration's transparency.
The hearing highlighted deep partisan divides over the US role in Iran, with Republicans largely supporting Hegseth's stance. The controversy is expected to intensify as further military engagements are reported.
