Hegseth defends Iran strikes, declines to blame Republican losses

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth defended the military action against Iran, saying he would support the operation again despite its potential role in Republican midterm losses. He declined to blame the war for the election outcome. Hegseth said he respected Vice President JD Vance but would not engage in finger-pointing, focusing instead on Pentagon duties. He backed President Donald Trump's position that the strikes were justified to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. Hegseth also addressed efforts to prevent an impeachment push against him, crediting House Speaker Mike Johnson with leading the effort. He said lawmakers were examining the matter rather than supporting what he called an unfounded vote.