Pete Hegseth

The Pentagon estimates the war with Iran has cost $25 billion, though sources suggest the true figure could reach $50 billion due to unincluded repair costs. Officials defended the ongoing conflict, calling it an "existential fight" and dismissing concerns of it becoming a "quagmire."

In a charged political atmosphere, Defence secretary pete hegseth is facing tough questions from lawmakers, including some from his own party, regarding the prolonged conflict in Iran and its controversial lack of congressional authorization. The Trump administration's ambitious military spending plan is taking a backseat to growing concerns about economic fallout and rising international tensions.

Defense Secretary pete hegseth defended President Trump's proposed $1.5 trillion military budget amid congressional scrutiny over the Iran war's escalating costs, now at $29 billion. Lawmakers questioned the strain on weapons stockpiles, while Hegseth acknowledged increased production to support ongoing operations and future needs.

President Donald Trump embarked on a crucial three-day visit to China, with trade negotiations and tensions over Iran topping the agenda. Trump expressed optimism about strengthening US-China ties and his relationship with President Xi Jinping, emphasizing trade as the primary focus of their discussions.

Senator Lindsey Graham has questioned Pakistan's credibility as a mediator in US-Iran negotiations, citing reports of Iranian military aircraft using Pakistani bases. Pakistan denies these claims, stating aircraft were for diplomatic arrangements. Broader scrutiny of Pakistan's mediation role has emerged within the Trump administration due to stalled talks and Iran's response to peace proposals.

Former CIA analyst Larry Johnson claims President Trump considered a nuclear strike on Iran. He alleges Chairman of the Joint Chiefs General Dan Caine firmly rejected the idea, preventing its execution. Johnson explained the military chain of command and the potential for Caine's resignation if overruled, adding context to Trump's subsequent public statements against nuclear use.

As US President Trump returns from China, pressure mounts over Iran. Top aides are reportedly preparing options for renewed military action against Tehran if diplomacy falters, including intensified bombing and potential Special Operations deployments. Iran, meanwhile, signals readiness for conflict, while the Strait of Hormuz remains a critical concern for global oil prices.

A recent prayer event in Washington, backed by the White House, has sparked debate about religion and nationalism. Thousands gathered for 'Rededicate 250,' with speakers advocating for America to be a Christian nation. This event highlights a trend of merging American identity with Christianity, a move critics liken to a 'Make America Christian' project.

Washington's campaign against Iran has surged to nearly $29 billion, surpassing initial Pentagon estimates. Experts warn the escalating costs, driven by operational and equipment replacement, could ultimately reach a staggering $1 trillion. This financial burden is becoming a political flashpoint ahead of US elections, with concerns over inflation.

A CBS report says it did. Pakistan acknowledged the presence of Iranian aircraft but claimed these were civilian assets. Looks like the US is now faced with its second Osama bin Laden moment

The Trump administration has unveiled over 160 UAP-related files, photos, and videos, aiming for greater transparency on government knowledge of unexplained phenomena. This release, part of the PURSUE program, includes never-before-seen materials from lunar missions and FBI investigations.

The US government is reportedly exploring new measures to compel AI firms like Google and Anthropic to cooperate on government use of their tools. Proposals include a vetting system for advanced AI models and restrictions on companies refusing government demands, potentially impacting national security applications and raising industry concerns about development speed.

US President Trump has declared hostilities with Iran have ended, despite ongoing US troop presence and persistent regional tensions. This assertion, made in a letter to Congress, aims to bypass the War Powers Resolution's requirement for military action authorization.

The NSA is testing Anthropic's advanced AI model, Mythos, to identify cybersecurity vulnerabilities in Microsoft products. This initiative highlights the agency's growing interest in AI-driven security testing, with officials impressed by the model's speed and efficiency in detecting weaknesses. The move comes amid broader discussions about the controlled deployment of powerful AI systems in sensitive government domains.

The Pentagon is withdrawing approximately 5,000 US troops from Germany, a move signaling heightened tensions with European allies over the Iran conflict. This decision follows sharp criticism from German Chancellor Friedrich Merz regarding Iran negotiations. The drawdown aims to return US troop levels in Europe to pre-Ukraine war figures, reflecting broader US frustration with NATO allies' perceived lack of support.

The USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group is heading home from the Middle East after an extended 10-month deployment, reducing US naval power amid ongoing Iran tensions. This withdrawal, despite stalled diplomatic efforts and continued blockade enforcement, marks the longest deployment for a modern US carrier, raising concerns about crew and vessel readiness.

Erika Kirk was seen being escorted from the White House Correspondents' Dinner in tears after gunfire caused panic and evacuation. The incident evoked sympathy due to her husband Charlie Kirk's death last year. The dinner was disrupted by a shooting near the security screening area, leading to a lockdown and the arrest of a suspect.

Panic erupted at the White House Correspondents' Dinner as gunshots were heard, forcing President Trump and Vice President Vance to be swiftly evacuated. Secret Service agents secured the venue, apprehending a suspect. Despite the scare, Trump praised security and declared "the show must go on." The incident caused widespread confusion and a massive security response.

US Vice President J D Vance is questioning the Pentagon's assessment of the Iran conflict, concerned about undisclosed missile stockpile depletion. He fears this could impact responses to global flashpoints like Taiwan, South Korea, and Europe. Despite official assurances, some believe the situation is being downplayed, potentially affecting future military readiness.

A major security incident disrupted the White House Correspondents' Association dinner, forcing the evacuation of President Trump and other top officials. Witnesses reported hearing five to eight gunshots, and a shooter was confirmed by law enforcement, though details remain unclear. No injuries were immediately reported among the hundreds of guests.

Navy Secretary John Phelan has been dismissed following reported tensions with Defense Secretary pete hegseth and Deputy Defense Secretary Steve Feinberg. Disagreements over the pace of naval modernization and shipbuilding priorities, as well as Phelan's direct communication with President Trump, led to his removal. Hung Cao has been appointed acting Navy secretary.

The Trump administration asserts the U.S. is not at war with Iran, despite approaching the War Powers Resolution's 60-day deadline. House Speaker Mike Johnson echoed this, stating no congressional authorization is needed as active hostilities have ceased. This stance, however, faces challenges from Democrats who argue the deadline remains binding.

US Navy Secretary John Phelan, a businessman and close associate of Donald Trump, has been abruptly removed from his post. This decision, reportedly influenced by pete hegseth's discussions with Trump, comes amid ongoing naval operations involving Iran and concerns over slow shipbuilding reforms. Phelan confirmed his departure after meeting with Trump.

Pentagon intelligence contradicts US claims of Iran's military degradation, stating Tehran remains a potent regional power. Meanwhile, President Trump announced an indefinite ceasefire extension with Iran, following a request from Pakistan, while maintaining a blockade. Iran rejected the move, warning of military response to the ongoing siege, as diplomatic efforts falter.

Iran's alleged mining of the Strait of Hormuz could delay its reopening for up to six months, according to Pentagon reports to Congress. This sophisticated deployment, using GPS technology, is making detection difficult for US forces. The standoff has already impacted global oil prices, with Brent crude exceeding $100 per barrel. US officials vow to counter this threat.