Trump questions Hegseth and Caine as Iran war drags on

President Donald Trump is considering resuming military strikes against Iran after Tuesday's midterm elections while questioning the performance of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Gen. Dan Caine, as the prolonged war fuels his political difficulties. Trump has grown frustrated that the eight-month conflict has not ended quickly as advisers promised, with Republicans facing potential losses in Congress. Critics accuse Hegseth of presenting overly optimistic assessments, though the Pentagon and White House deny these claims and express full confidence in both officials. Military options presented to Trump include strikes lasting hours, days, or weeks, with supporters arguing additional attacks could force Iranian concessions. However, analysts warn another unsuccessful round could expose limits of American power, while renewed strikes risk higher oil prices and civilian casualties.