House blocks impeachment of Defense Secretary Hegseth over Iran war
The US House of Representatives voted Tuesday to block an impeachment resolution against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over his handling of the Iran war, handing President Donald Trump a victory days after his party's midterm defeat. Republicans largely stood by Hegseth after Trump signaled strong support, rejecting the effort led by Kentucky Republican Thomas Massie and backed by Democrats. The vote may only delay the push, as Democrats are set to take control of the House and Senate in January. Hegseth defended his record in a news conference, calling the impeachment effort "sabotage" and arguing his actions were lawful military operations. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer endorsed the impeachment push, with Massie's resolution citing eight counts including civilian casualties and unauthorized hostilities.