- Republican senators have expressed a loss of confidence in Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth , citing his handling of the Iran war and a series of high-profile firings within the U.S. military, a number of GOP lawmakers told The Hill .
- Senator Thom Tillis criticized Hegseth for forcing out distinguished leaders and exhibiting a "massive insecurity complex" and micromanagement, comparing the Pentagon's internal dynamics to "Game of Thrones stuff."
- Senator Susan Collins also voiced disquiet over the recent dismissal of Gen. Christopher Donahue, the top Army commander for Europe and Africa, calling it "deeply troubling."
- Senators Shelley Moore Capito and Joni Ernst warned Hegseth that the public is "growing weary" of the unresolved conflict, and Congress is uneasy with the $37.5 billion expense and perceived lack of transparency.
- Hegseth defended his actions before the Senate Appropriations Committee, stating that characterizing the effort as a failure is "reckless and irresponsible" and smears the sacrifice of troops working to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
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