U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has urged Congress to approve additional funding for military operations as the conflict with Iran continues to intensify. Speaking before senators, Hegseth argued that increased resources are necessary to sustain ongoing operations and maintain U.S. military readiness.

The request comes as Republican lawmakers unveiled a proposed $95 billion military funding package, aimed at supporting U.S. defense priorities, including operations related to the conflict with Iran.

Hegseth's testimony was briefly interrupted by anti-war protesters, who called for an end to U.S. military involvement and urged lawmakers to pursue diplomatic solutions instead of expanding the conflict.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that American forces had carried out strikes against targets in Iran for the 11th consecutive night. The continued operations mark a significant escalation in hostilities following the collapse of the U.S.–Iran ceasefire on July 8.

Residents in Tehran also reported hearing explosions overnight—the first such reports from the Iranian capital since the ceasefire broke down—raising concerns that the conflict is expanding despite previous efforts to restore calm.

In a separate development, President Donald Trump authorized the resumption of direct commercial flights between the United States and Lebanon, describing the move as a historic step intended to facilitate travel and strengthen ties with Lebanon despite heightened regional tensions.