US congressman files resolution to impeach Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth
Republican Representative Thomas Massie has introduced eight articles of impeachment against Pete Hegseth over alleged violations of US laws.
United States Republican Representative Thomas Massie introduced a resolution to impeach Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth in the House of Representatives on Monday. According to Al Jazeera, Massie is accusing Hegseth of conducting an unauthorised war against Iran and violating the Constitution through various actions.
The impeachment articles include allegations that Hegseth waged hostilities in Iran for over 90 days without congressional approval. Massie also alleged that Hegseth carried out unlawful strikes on suspected drug boats in the Caribbean and Pacific, and was involved in the abduction of former Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.
Massie further claimed that Hegseth restricted media access to the Pentagon and conducted an unlawful war in Yemen against the Houthis. The lawmaker urged the defence secretary to resign before Democrats take control of Congress in January to avoid future investigations.
Hegseth told reporters on Monday that he is prepared to defend his actions in Congress. He described the opposition as politically motivated individuals who disagree with his successes and stated he is happy to litigate his military actions.
Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson has criticised the move, stating that Cabinet secretaries should not be impeached for political gain. President Donald Trump also defended Hegseth, stating that the defence secretary has saved the Middle East and Israel combined.
A majority of the 435-member House of Representatives must vote in favour of impeachment, followed by a two-thirds vote in the Senate to remove him from office.
