Republican files impeachment articles against Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth

Republican Representative Thomas Massie has initiated impeachment proceedings against Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, accusing him of illegal military actions including starting a war with Iran and ignoring a congressional resolution to withdraw troops. Massie filed eight articles Monday, also alleging Hegseth ordered unlawful force against suspected drug boats in the Caribbean and during the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, calling it an act of war against a sovereign nation. The libertarian Republican, a frequent Trump critic, previously attempted similar action in September. If approved by the House, Hegseth would become the first Pentagon chief impeached in 150 years. The vote is scheduled next week, though conviction requires a two-thirds Senate majority, which appears unlikely. Hegseth defended himself Tuesday, saying the actions were not crimes but his job, while President Trump urged Congress to support him.