Republican lawmaker files impeachment articles against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over Iran war conduct

Republican Representative Thomas Massie initiated impeachment proceedings against US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Monday, November 9, over his conduct of the war in Iran. Massie accuses Hegseth of violating the law by waging war without congressional authorization. The Kentucky lawmaker also alleges Hegseth ignored laws minimizing civilian casualties, citing a bombing of a school in Minab, Iran, that killed 120 children. Additional accusations include extrajudicial executions during anti-narcotics operations and the kidnapping of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in January. Republicans hold a congressional majority until January, and the House vote could pass due to opposition from some GOP members and absenteeism. Senate conviction is unlikely, as a two-thirds majority would be required. President Trump defended Hegseth, calling Massie a "loser" and praising his defense secretary's performance.