Story perspectives

Hegseth, Smith Clash Over Iran Strategy at Pentagon Hearing

4/30/2026

Summary

Story summary

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Representative Adam Smith clashed during a congressional hearing on the Pentagon budget over President Donald Trump’s Iran strategy.
Representative Adam Smith argued that every U.S. president since the 1979 Iranian Revolution has prevented a nuclear weapon without war and that Iran’s nuclear arsenal remains unchanged.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth countered that the strikes have obliterated Iran’s nuclear facilities and that continued attacks are needed.

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Story summary

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Representative Adam Smith clashed during a congressional hearing on the Pentagon budget over President Donald Trump’s Iran strategy.
Representative Adam Smith argued that every U.S. president since the 1979 Iranian Revolution has prevented a nuclear weapon without war and that Iran’s nuclear arsenal remains unchanged.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth countered that the strikes have obliterated Iran’s nuclear facilities and that continued attacks are needed.