US Defense Secretary Hegseth faces dismissal over Iran war, arms shortage: SCMP

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is reportedly on the verge of dismissal, with speculation mounting that President Donald Trump may hold him accountable for the prolonged war in Iran and the US's dwindling arms supplies. The Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post cited sources within the Trump administration, suggesting the President is contemplating a cabinet reshuffle as the November midterm elections approach, driven by worries over his declining approval ratings.

A source familiar with the administration's inner workings indicated that Hegseth's failure to achieve a decisive breakthrough in ending the Iran war has "angered the president." Another source close to the matter stated that "Hegseth's position is precarious." This comes amid growing signs of fatigue and strain among US troops engaged in extended operations. Recent reports have highlighted the difficult conditions faced by the 5,000-strong crew of the USS Abraham Lincoln, an aircraft carrier that has been operating in the Middle East and Latin America since November, grappling with inadequate sanitation and poor food quality.

“

Hegseth's position is precarious.

Further compounding these issues, the Washington Post reported that the USS Benfold, a guided-missile destroyer on long-term deployment in the South China Sea, experienced a four-day power outage last month due to a generator malfunction. During this period, its crew reportedly lacked access to water, food, and essential facilities. The SCMP suggests that Hegseth's potential departure could influence defense relations between the US and China, particularly as the two nations prepare for a summit between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping next month. This could disrupt the military exchanges that had intensified following a previous summit in May.

However, some analysts believe that Elbridge Colby, the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Strategy and Force Development, who maintains significant influence and has long-standing contact with Chinese officials, could ensure the continuity of military cooperation regardless of who replaces Hegseth. Meanwhile, other media outlets have raised the possibility of Hegseth pursuing elected office after his tenure. The Pentagon confirmed that Hegseth would visit Iowa to support Republican Congressman Jack Nantz's reelection campaign, a move that CBS noted is unusual for a sitting defense secretary.

“

Hegseth's failure to achieve a decisive breakthrough in ending the Iran war has angered the president.