Tehran: Anti-war demonstrators have repeatedly interrupted US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth during a Senate hearing, protesting Washington's military action against Iran and calling for an end to the war.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, the disruptions came as US military aggression against Tehran continues, amid growing domestic divisions over the Donald Trump administration's military approach toward Iran. Protesters halted Hegseth's testimony several times, holding signs reading, 'No war with Iran.' One demonstrator could be heard shouting at the defense secretary, 'Your hands are bloody.'

The protesters also chanted, 'Stop bombing children in Iran and Palestine!' during the hearing, drawing attention to civilian casualties they associated with the wars. While Hegseth sought to portray US military strength and deterrence, asserting Washington's readiness to maintain pressure on Iran and respond forcefully if necessary, the protesters presented a sharply contrasting message that challenged the narrative promoted by the White House.

US Capitol Police forcibly removed all four demonstrators from the hearing. The protest followed mounting domestic criticism of Trump's handling of the war of aggression on Iran. Trump has faced pressure from both public opinion and members of Congress over the deaths of US military personnel during the war.

Earlier, Trump defended his administration's conduct by comparing the war with previous US wars, arguing that the relatively lower number of American military casualties should be regarded as one of his administration's achievements.