US Defense Secretary Reveals Iran Escalation Plans to Congress

A $1.5 trillion defense budget—an unprecedented figure—was defended before Congress on Tuesday by US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who disclosed that the Pentagon has prepared plans for escalation against Iran. Hegseth told lawmakers that Washington possesses sufficient munitions to achieve its objectives in Iran, stating that any action against Tehran would be conducted "on our terms."

The Trump administration insists the massive defense spending increase is essential to counter geopolitical threats, replenish US military stockpiles, and expand the defense industrial base. Hegseth emphasized that the administration will not permit Iran to acquire nuclear weapons by any means.

Despite ongoing tensions and stalled negotiations, Hegseth confirmed that the ceasefire agreement with Iran remains in effect. He argued that Iranians want to negotiate because "they know we are winning," adding, "We have prevailed on all fronts, and the Iranians know that."

Reuters, citing a Pentagon official, reported that the cost of the war with Iran has so far reached approximately $29 billion, with most funds allocated to munitions and military operations. The Pentagon itself has estimated the cost at $25 billion.

According to Fox News, the budget bill is facing growing opposition from Democrats and some Republicans due to the proposed scale of military spending. During earlier hearings in April, Hegseth clashed directly with Democratic members over the Iran war, telling lawmakers that "the biggest threat facing the United States right now is the reckless and defeatist rhetoric of some Democrats and Republicans."

The proposed budget allocates over $65 billion for the Navy's "Golden Fleet" initiative and roughly $20 billion for the "Golden Dome" air defense project, alongside funding for next-generation fighter jets and unmanned weapons systems. To offset these costs, the administration proposes cutting spending on several civilian agencies, including a one-third reduction to the State Department and international programs budget, and halving funding for the Environmental Protection Agency.