US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth To Testify On Iran War As Peace Talks Stall

The ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran is set to take centre stage in Washington as Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth prepares to testify before the US Congress on Wednesday. The hearing comes at a critical moment, with diplomatic efforts to end the war reportedly stalling and tensions escalating across the Middle East.

The war, which began two months ago following joint US-Israeli military operations, has severely disrupted regional stability. One of the most significant developments has been Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route for oil and gas. The move has triggered volatility in global energy markets and raised concerns about sustained supply disruptions, particularly for major importers in Asia and Europe.

Efforts to restart negotiations have slowed in recent days, despite backchannel diplomacy involving intermediaries such as Pakistan. Reports suggest that a planned visit by US Vice President JD Vance for talks was postponed, reflecting uncertainty within Washington about Iran’s latest proposals. According to US officials, discussions have centred on Tehran’s conditions regarding nuclear restrictions and partial easing of maritime tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.

Also Read: Trump Rejects Iran's Strait of Hormuz Proposal, Insists Nuclear Issue Must Lead Peace Talks

At a White House state dinner, US President Donald Trump told guests that Iran had been “militarily defeated,” while maintaining that the US would not allow Tehran to develop nuclear weapons. However, Iranian officials have rejected such claims, insisting that the conflict remains unresolved and warning that they retain military capabilities for prolonged resistance if hostilities resume.

The latest Iranian proposal, reportedly transmitted through diplomatic channels including Pakistan, includes provisions to ease the blockade in exchange for limited sanctions relief. While US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the offer as more structured than expected, he questioned whether Iranian officials had the authority to implement such commitments following internal disruptions caused by recent strikes on senior leadership.

Meanwhile, energy markets have reacted sharply to the ongoing instability. Brent crude has surged above pre-ceasefire levels, reaching around $112 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate briefly crossed $100. The price volatility reflects growing fears of prolonged supply disruption, with analysts warning of broader inflationary pressures if the conflict continues.

The geopolitical fallout has also drawn international criticism and concern. Some global leaders have questioned the lack of a clear US strategy, while others warn that the conflict risks becoming a prolonged “frozen war” if no diplomatic breakthrough is achieved. Domestically, rising energy prices and public concern over the war’s duration are increasing pressure on the US administration ahead of upcoming political cycles.

As congressional scrutiny intensifies, Hegseth’s testimony is expected to focus on military objectives, regional security risks, and the administration’s broader strategy in the Middle East. With diplomacy stalled and tensions continuing to escalate across multiple fronts, the conflict shows few immediate signs of resolution.

Also Read: Trump Sets 3–5 Day Deadline For Iran To Respond On Peace Talks Amid Ceasefire Tensions