US Defense Secretary faces impeachment over Iran war conduct
Republican Representative Thomas Massie initiated impeachment proceedings against U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Monday, citing his conduct of the war in Iran. The move challenges Hegseth's leadership and could lead to a formal House vote this week. Massie's resolution accuses Hegseth of violating laws by waging war against Iran without Congressional authorization and ignoring civilian protection rules, specifically citing a bombing of a school in Minab that killed 120 children. Eight articles of impeachment include allegations of extrajudicial executions during strikes on drug boats in the Caribbean and Pacific. The impeachment faces long odds as Republicans hold 53 Senate seats, requiring a two-thirds majority for conviction. President Donald Trump defended Hegseth, calling Massie a "loser," while Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries accused Hegseth of abusing power and undermining national security.