As the Iran war strains US military readiness and tension rises with China, the Pentagon said Hegseth’s attendance at the gathering in the Philippine province of Cebu would reaffirm Washington’s commitment to “peace through strength” in the Pacific.
Analysts said ASEAN nations could use meetings with Hegseth to seek clarity about the endgame in Iran.
Pete Hegseth To Face Questions On US Role In Indo-Pacific At ASEAN Summit
Oct 27, 2026 | 7:27 PM
