WASHINGTON — A Republican lawmaker on Monday introduced a resolution seeking to impeach U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over his handling of the war against Iran, escalating criticism of the Trump administration's military campaign.
Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky filed eight articles of impeachment against Hegseth, accusing him of abusing his authority, waging war without congressional authorization and undermining constitutional limits on the use of military force.
The resolution also raises concerns about civilian casualties in U.S. military operations, strikes against vessels in the Caribbean, military actions in Yemen and the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, according to reports.
Massie, a frequent critic of President Donald Trump's foreign policy, argues that Hegseth violated his constitutional responsibilities by carrying out military operations without sufficient congressional oversight.
The move could force the Republican-controlled House to consider the impeachment resolution within two legislative days, potentially setting up a vote by Wednesday.
Hegseth has rejected the impeachment effort, describing it as politically motivated and dismissing the allegations as a political stunt. He has defended the war against Iran, arguing that the military campaign was necessary to counter Tehran's nuclear ambitions.
President Trump has also defended his defense secretary, describing the U.S. military campaigns as victories.
Democratic House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has backed the impeachment initiative, saying Hegseth abused his authority and helped orchestrate what he called a costly and unnecessary war against Iran.
However, the effort faces significant political hurdles. Republicans still control the outgoing Congress, despite suffering major losses in the Nov. 3 midterm elections, while Democrats are preparing to take control of both chambers in January.
Even if the House approves the impeachment articles, removing Hegseth from office would require a two-thirds majority in the Senate, making conviction difficult.
The impeachment push comes amid growing political divisions over the Iran war, which has contributed to rising energy prices, disruptions to regional shipping and mounting criticism of the Trump administration's military strategy.
Share this story
