Democratic Representative Seth Moulton and Defense Secretary Pete Hegesth – both veterans and opponents of the Iraq War – clashed over whether the US blockade of Iranian ports is worthy of celebrating as a victory.
“What’s the progress of this war?” “Do you believe we are succeeding?” Moulton inquired of Hegseth during the House Armed Services Committee meeting.
“From a military perspective, on the combat field?” “It has been an incredible achievement in the military,” Hegseth responded. “Definitely.”
“Would you consider Iran shutting down the Strait of Hormuz a victory?” Moulton retorted.
Hegseth started to explain the US naval blockade, but Moulton interrupted him by mentioning the War of 1812, during which the British forces ignited sections of the US capital.
Moulton: “They surrounded us, and then we surrounded their barrier.” That’s similar to saying, ‘You’re it, tag!’ “Or, you know, if President Madison had remarked, ‘Well, the British have just set Washington on fire, but don’t worry, we’ll do the same.’”
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