US Representative Thomas Massie introduced a resolution Tuesday calling for the impeachment of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, alleging that he disregarded congressional authority by continuing US military operations in Iran.
The resolution comes after several efforts in the House to limit the administration’s military campaign against Tehran. In June and July, lawmakers passed war powers resolutions urging the president to halt US hostilities with Iran.
Massie’s eight-count resolution claims Hegseth continued the operations despite Congress exercising its constitutional authority over matters of war. Massie argued that the defense secretary’s actions prevented Congress from carrying out its constitutional responsibilities and allowed what he called an unlawful conflict to continue.
The resolution also contains allegations concerning US military activities in Venezuela and Yemen, including an alleged mission to capture former Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.
House Democrats had previously filed six impeachment articles against Hegseth in April, including accusations related to the Iran conflict.
The House is required to take up Massie’s resolution within two legislative days. However, Republican leaders could attempt to block further consideration by tabling the measure.
Attorney General Todd Blanche defended Hegseth during a press briefing, stating that the defense secretary was performing well and complying with the law. Blanche also said the Justice Department actively works to ensure the administration’s military actions meet legal requirements.
Blanche rejected describing the US military campaign in Iran as a “war.” He pointed to congressional votes on the issue, arguing that they did not demonstrate unlawful conduct by Hegseth or President Donald Trump.
The dispute centres on competing interpretations of executive military authority and Congress’s constitutional power over US involvement in armed conflicts.
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