Republican Congressman Seeks Impeachment of Hegseth Over Iran War, Military Actions

WASHINGTON, Nov 9: Republican Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky on Monday introduced eight articles of impeachment against US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, accusing him of violating constitutional limits on military power and federal laws through his handling of the war against Iran and other US military operations.

The move sets the stage for a potentially contentious vote in the House of Representatives, which could take place as early as Wednesday, following major Republican losses in last week's midterm elections.

Massie, an outgoing congressman who lost his Republican primary, said Hegseth's conduct amounted to high crimes and misdemeanors and warranted impeachment.

Three of the eight articles accuse Hegseth of violating the 1973 War Powers Resolution by conducting military operations against Iran without congressional authorization, continuing hostilities despite congressional opposition, and exceeding the law's statutory time limits for unauthorized military action.

The resolution also accuses the Pentagon chief of disregarding laws intended to minimize civilian casualties during military operations, including allegations relating to a strike on an Iranian school.

Other charges concern alleged extrajudicial killings during US military strikes against suspected drug-trafficking vessels in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, retaliation against US Senator Mark Kelly over his criticism of military policy, the alleged unlawful seizure of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, and military operations against Yemen's Houthi movement without congressional authorization.

Massie said the allegations extend beyond the Iran conflict, accusing Hegseth of abusing his office, disregarding congressional authority and undermining constitutionally protected free speech.

The impeachment effort comes as Republicans face growing internal criticism over the Iran war and its economic consequences. Several party officials have blamed the conflict for contributing to the Republican Party's sweeping midterm election defeats.

House Speaker Mike Johnson has opposed the move, warning that impeaching a Cabinet secretary while US forces remain engaged in military operations overseas would send the wrong message to allies and adversaries.

Most House Democrats are expected to support the impeachment effort. Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries has also indicated his support, saying Hegseth should be held accountable.

However, Republican support will be crucial for the resolution to pass in the GOP-controlled House.

Hegseth has dismissed the impeachment threat as politically motivated, saying he and his team are not concerned about the criticism. He has defended the military campaigns, arguing that the operations against Iran, Yemen's Houthis and other targets were necessary.

President Donald Trump has also defended his Defense Secretary, crediting him with military successes and rejecting calls for his removal.

Hegseth has announced a Pentagon news conference for Tuesday, his first in more than 180 days, amid mounting questions over the Iran war and the impeachment effort.

If the House approves the articles of impeachment, the case would move to the Senate for a possible trial. However, the outcome remains uncertain as Republicans continue to hold majorities in both chambers until the new Congress takes office in January.