Defense Secretary Nominee Faces Scrutiny Over ASEAN Knowledge
During Tuesday’s Senate confirmation hearing, Pete Hegseth, nominated for Secretary of Defense, faced challenges in demonstrating his knowledge of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) questioned Hegseth on his familiarity with ASEAN, asking him to specify the number of member countries and discuss the significance of at least one.
Hegseth admitted, “I couldn’t tell you the exact amount of nations in that,” adding, “But I know we have allies in South Korea, and Japan, and in AUKUS in Australia.”
Senator Duckworth pointed out that none of the mentioned countries are part of ASEAN.
ASEAN, comprising 10 nations such as Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, and the Philippines, is a vital political and economic alliance positioned near the South China Sea.
The South China Sea is instrumental in global trade and security, with $3.4 trillion worth of goods, representing 21% of global trade, transiting the region in 2016.
Territorial disputes in the South China Sea persist, with China’s extensive claims being contested by ASEAN members, Japan, and the United States. China has been increasing its influence through economic means and military activities in the area.
On January 14, the date of Hegseth’s hearing, Japan’s Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya expressed his “grave concern” regarding the rising maritime tensions, according to a Reuters report.
Nominated by President-elect Donald Trump on November 13, Hegseth has been criticized for his perceived lack of experience. His background includes serving as a captain in the Minnesota National Guard and a tour in Afghanistan. He has been a Fox News contributor since 2014.
In addition to his media work, Hegseth led two veterans organizations, both of which were accused of financial mismanagement and faced allegations of widespread sexual harassment, as reported by the New Yorker.
The Trump transition team did not provide an immediate comment on the situation.
