US Lawmaker Moves to Impeach Defense Secretary Over Iran War Amid Midterm Fallout

Republican Representative Thomas Massie has formally moved to compel a House vote on impeaching US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The thirty-four-page resolution contains eight articles of impeachment, alleging that Hegseth committed high crimes and misdemeanors by carrying out unlawful military operations. Massie argues that the defense chief waged war in Iran without congressional authorization, violating the War Powers Resolution, and ignored laws meant to minimize civilian casualties. The measure also cites Hegseth's role in military operations in Yemen and Venezuela.

Reactions and Support

President Donald Trump strongly defended Hegseth on Truth Social and in the White House briefing room, calling Massie a stone-cold loser and praising the defense secretary for successful campaigns in Venezuela and Iran. Trump argued that Hegseth saved Israel and the Middle East, noting that the Iran campaign destroyed nuclear infrastructure and stopped Tehran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also defended Hegseth during the G7 foreign ministers' meeting in Paris, stating the defense secretary has done a great job. Meanwhile, House Speaker Mike Johnson urged lawmakers not to impeach Hegseth while US forces remain engaged in the Middle East, warning it sends a terrible message to allies and adversaries. On the other side, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries endorsed the resolution, and most House Democrats are expected to back it.

Context

The impeachment push follows heavy midterm election losses for the Republican Party, with many blaming the ongoing conflict in Iran for the electoral defeats. Massie introduced the updated resolution as the House began its first session since the elections, setting up a procedural vote. While Republicans retain majorities in both chambers until the new Congress convenes in January, Democrats are set to take control then, and Massie suggested his move is a gentler version of what Democrats might launch next year if Hegseth remains in office.