US House blocks impeachment bid against Defense Secretary Hegseth

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth will remain in office for now after Republicans in the House of Representatives blocked an impeachment attempt against him. The move follows Republican losses in last week's midterm elections, with Hegseth facing criticism over the US war against Iran. Representative Thomas Massie, backed by Democrats, initiated the effort, arguing the Iran war and the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro lacked congressional approval. The proposal was defeated 211-204 and sent to a Republican-led committee, effectively ending the impeachment bid. President Trump welcomed the outcome, calling the Democrats' effort a "failure" and labeling Massie "a big loser." However, Hegseth could still face forced removal early next year when Democrats are set to hold majorities in both the House and Senate.