Trump Confronts Hegseth Over Munitions Shortage

Before the conflict, the US military maintained 2,330 Patriot systems and 452 Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) systems. By July 27, an estimated 759 to 827 Patriot systems and 234 to 278 THAAD systems remained.

ATACMS and PrSM systems, crucial long-range surface-to-surface missiles, enable attacks on targets without risking US pilots.

Hegseth reportedly blamed his deputy, Stephen Feinberg, for the shortages and for failing to ensure Trump received full disclosure on the issue. Sean Parnell, however, stated that "Secretary Hegseth did not mislead anyone about our munitions posture, and he did not blame Deputy Secretary Feinberg."

Parnell further asserted that "These claims about depleted stockpiles, internal disagreements…are equally fictional." The White House and Pentagon have denied the reporting regarding these internal disputes.

Hegseth previously implemented mandatory non-disclosure agreements and lie detector tests for Pentagon staff. Trump reportedly threatened "leakers" who spoke to the press with jail.

Separately, the US and Israel conducted joint strikes on Iranian sites on February 28. Iran stated it is in the final stages of an agreement with Oman regarding the Strait of Hormuz.

US military operations in Iran have cost an estimated $37.5 billion, according to Hegseth. Hegseth also claimed the Biden administration is responsible for not properly funding the Defense Department.

President Trump has met with executives from Lockheed and other major US military contractors. Hegseth has spoken of the "courage to undertake Epic Fury and this Iranian regime and ensure they never have a nuclear weapon…and, frankly, the courage to negotiate with people that have shown no willingness to do so honestly."