House passes defense bill, pressures Hegseth to release controversial strike video

• US House passed a defense policy bill compelling Defense Secretary Hegseth to release evidence related to controversial military boat strikes.
• The bill, passed 312-112, aims to force the release of unedited video from operations, including a September 2 strike that killed 11 people.
• It mandates withholding 25% of Hegseth's travel budget until he discloses orders and releases the video, addressing concerns about the legality of re-striking vessels.
• The $900 billion defense bill also reforms Pentagon weapon buying, requires consultation for troop withdrawals, and renews security aid to Ukraine and Baltic nations.

Why It Matters: This bill forces military transparency and oversight on controversial actions.