US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth asserted that the military established a 'maximum defensive posture' across the Middle East prior to the conflict with Iran in late February, though he avoided specifics regarding defenses at the Kuwait port.
Congressional Scrutiny Over Kuwait Attack
Democratic Representative Patrick Ryan questioned Secretary Hegseth regarding the defenses at the Shuaiba port in Kuwait, where six U.S. Army Reserve soldiers were killed in an Iranian drone attack on March 1.
- Ryan cited reporting from CBS News, suggesting survivors claimed the operations center lacked adequate air defense against drones or missiles.
- Ryan pointed out a perceived contradiction between the Pentagon's statements and the testimony of the attack's survivors.
Hegseth's Defense of Military Posture
Secretary Hegseth maintained that comprehensive defensive measures were implemented before the conflict escalated.
- He stated that the military moved approximately 7,500 troops away from certain bases based on intelligence.
- Hegseth emphasized that the strategy involved a 'much larger picture' including integrated air defenses and relocating personnel to minimize risk.
- He concluded that any casualties were an unavoidable consequence of conflict.
Response to Further Questioning
When questioned later by Representative Chris Deluzio about Pentagon officials dismissing claims of inadequate defense at the Kuwait port, Hegseth characterized the line of questioning as "disparaging."
- He stated, "I’m not calling our troops liars... all I know is that we took every effort possible at the commencement of this campaign to ensure the defense of our troops."
