US Representative Thomas Massie introduced a resolution Tuesday seeking the impeachment of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over allegations that he defied Congress by continuing US military operations in Iran.
The move follows efforts in the House to limit the administration’s military campaign against Tehran. Lawmakers approved war powers resolutions in June and July urging the president to end US hostilities with Iran.
Massie’s eight-article resolution claims Hegseth continued the military operations despite Congress asserting its constitutional authority over decisions involving war. Massie argued that the defense secretary’s actions interfered with Congress’s constitutional responsibilities and allowed what he described as an unlawful conflict to continue.
The resolution also raises allegations concerning US military operations in Venezuela and Yemen, including an alleged mission aimed at capturing then-Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.
Earlier in April, House Democrats introduced six impeachment articles against Hegseth, with some also related to the Iran conflict.
Under House rules, Massie’s resolution must be considered within two legislative days. However, Republican leaders could attempt to table the measure instead.
Attorney General Todd Blanche defended Hegseth during a press conference, saying the defense secretary was performing strongly and acting within the law. Blanche said the Justice Department was involved in reviewing the administration’s actions to ensure they complied with legal requirements.
Blanche also disputed the description of the US military campaign in Iran as a “war.” He pointed to congressional votes on the matter and argued that they did not establish that Hegseth or President Donald Trump had acted unlawfully.
The dispute highlights an ongoing disagreement in Washington over the limits of presidential military authority and Congress’s constitutional role in authorizing or restricting US military action.
PRESS UPDATE