NPR News: 05-13-2026 2AM EDT

President Trump expressed enthusiasm for his upcoming meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, calling it an "exciting trip" where "a lot of good things are going to happen." He arrives in Beijing on Wednesday but downplayed any need for China's help in the Iran war, despite China being a major buyer of Iranian oil. Separately, Defense Secretary Pete Hagseth faced bipartisan criticism on Capitol Hill over the war's rising costs—now at $29 billion—and its drain on U.S. weapons stockpiles, as well as the administration's strained relations with longtime allies.

Iran War Scrutiny and Costs

Hegseth's testimony highlighted escalating financial and logistical pressures from the conflict. Lawmakers from both parties questioned the Pentagon's management, with costs surging to $29 billion and concerns mounting over depleted munitions reserves. Pushback also targeted the Trump administration's approach to allies, signaling potential rifts in support for the war effort.