US lawmakers grill Marco Rubio

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to face lawmakers in a rare public appearance before Congress as questions mount over President Donald Trump’s foreign policy agenda, the conflict with Iran, and proposed cuts to American diplomacy.

Rubio will testify before members of both the Senate and House of Representatives over two days as he defends the administration’s State Department budget request and outlines its international priorities.

The hearings come as the Trump administration seeks congressional approval for a 30% reduction in the foreign affairs budget while simultaneously proposing a 50% increase in military spending, a move that has sparked debate among lawmakers from both parties.

As both Secretary of State and National Security Adviser, Rubio has played a central role in shaping U.S. policy during the ongoing tensions with Iran. However, while he has participated in classified briefings behind closed doors, he has yet to publicly testify about the administration’s handling of the conflict.

Lawmakers are expected to press Rubio on the administration’s strategy toward Iran, including efforts to secure stability in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes. Any disruption to the waterway has significant implications for global energy markets and fuel prices in the United States.

Republicans facing difficult congressional elections later this year are particularly concerned about rising gasoline prices and inflationary pressures on American households. Many hope the administration can reduce tensions in the region and help stabilize energy costs before voters head to the polls.

At the same time, Trump faces pressure from hawkish members of his own party who oppose concessions to Tehran and favour a tougher stance against Iran’s leadership.

Several lawmakers, including some Republicans, have called for greater transparency regarding the administration’s long-term strategy on Iran, military commitments overseas, and broader foreign policy goals.

The hearings are expected to provide one of the first major public examinations of the Trump administration’s foreign policy decisions since the escalation of tensions with Iran and could offer new insight into Washington’s plans for the region.