Congressional confirmation hearings continued Tuesday to fill the role of secretary of defense. Independent U.S. Sen. Angus King told nominee Mark Esper he is worried about an accidental war breaking out in the Gulf region of the Middle East.
“I saw a map this morning of military assets in the Persian Gulf, and the Strait of Hormuz. There are so many opportunities for mistake and miscalculation on both sides,” he said.
Esper currently serves as secretary of the army and is acting secretary of defense. King reminded him of the mistakes and misconceptions that led to World War I and said all of the military activity in the Gulf region could result in a military conflict in the Middle East that no one wants.
Esper agreed, saying that is why regional allies are so important in making sure mistakes are not made. The potential Pentagon chief pledged to try and grow those alliances.
Esper’s nomination could go to the full Senate this week.Msaine Pub
