Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby appeared before the House Armed Services Committee Thursday morning to testify on the U.S. national defense strategy, marking his second congressional appearance this week on defense matters.

The hearing came two days after Colby faced questioning from the Senate Armed Services Committee, where he discussed the Trump administration's National Defense Strategy. Senate Armed Services Committee Chair Roger Wicker, a Mississippi Republican, had criticized aspects of the administration's defense approach during that earlier session.

During Thursday's House hearing, Democratic Representative Adam Smith pressed Colby about U.S. objectives regarding Iran. Smith questioned whether President Trump had failed to keep the United States out of military conflict with Iran, characterizing the situation as the president having "dragged" the country into war with the nation.

Colby defended the president's Iran policy in response to Smith's criticisms. The exchange highlighted ongoing congressional concerns about the administration's approach to Iran amid escalating tensions between the two countries.

The testimony occurs as lawmakers seek clarity on the Pentagon's strategic priorities and approach to regional conflicts, particularly in the Middle East where U.S.-Iran relations remain strained.