In a recent congressional hearing, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth came under fire from Democrats regarding the ongoing war against Iran, which has reportedly cost $25 billion without congressional approval. The hearing, part of discussions on the administration's proposed $1.5 trillion military budget for 2027, saw Democrats questioning the war's justification and its economic impact, particularly the rising gasoline prices affecting American citizens. Hegseth defended the administration's actions, claiming that the biggest threat comes from 'reckless' political criticism. He faced pointed questions about the rationale for the war, especially after stating that Iran's nuclear facilities had been destroyed in earlier strikes. Lawmakers noted the war's impact on U.S. fuel prices, which have surged following Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route. While some Republicans supported Hegseth's military decisions, there was a growing bipartisan concern over his recent firings of top military leaders, with calls for transparency regarding these personnel changes. As the U.S. and Iran remain in a stalemate, the hearing underscored the complexities surrounding the administration's military strategy and its implications for both national security and the economy.