A discussion on MSNBC's MS NOW focused on the political fallout from President Donald Trump's handling of a conflict involving Iran and the potential consequences for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

Commentator Bill Rohde argued that while Trump bears primary responsibility for what he described as a strategic failure, Hegseth could face the most immediate political repercussions.

According to Rohde, Hegseth is already unpopular among a number of Republican lawmakers and may become a focal point for criticism as questions arise about the administration's decisions during the conflict.

Rohde accused Hegseth of providing overly optimistic public assessments of the war effort and failing to adequately inform Congress about key developments.

He questioned whether the defense secretary properly advised the president about risks involving the Strait of Hormuz and whether his public statements accurately reflected conditions on the ground.Rohde suggested that lawmakers and the public will likely demand closer examination of Hegseth's conduct and decision-making.

Morning Joe co-host Willie Geist added that Hegseth has maintained a lower public profile since frequently appearing at press briefings earlier in the conflict.

Geist criticized what he characterized as simplistic presentations of military progress and argued that the situation proved more complex than administration officials had suggested.

The segment portrayed Hegseth as potentially vulnerable to political criticism from both Congress and media observers as debates continue over the administration's handling of the Iran-related conflict and its outcomes.