U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on May 1, 2026, that approximately 5,000 troops will be withdrawn from Germany within the next year, as tensions rise over the ongoing conflict involving Iran. In a letter to top lawmakers, Hegseth noted that hostilities with Iran had ceased as of April 7, 2026, after nearly two months of conflict that began on February 28, 2026. Concurrently, Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon resulted in the deaths of 12 individuals, igniting further unrest despite a declared ceasefire. This withdrawal comes amid increasing pressure from Congress for the Biden administration to seek formal authorization for military actions in the region. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing updates expected as developments unfold.