Secretary of War Pete Hegseth Rejects Impeachment Push Over Iran Conflict

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth responded to a resolution introduced by outgoing Republican Representative Thomas Massie that seeks his impeachment over the conduct of U.S. military operations in Iran, Yemen and Venezuela. In his first media briefing since May, Hegseth argued that no Secretary of War or Secretary of Defense has ever been impeached for carrying out lawful military actions in the nation’s 250-year history.

"In the 250 years of our American republic, no Secretary of War or Secretary of Defense has ever been impeached for carrying out lawful military operations," Hegseth said.

He characterized the impeachment effort as a political stunt driven by personal grievances, adding that it would portray U.S. troops as criminals. Hegseth also defended the ongoing war with Iran, stating that history will eventually view the conflict differently and noting that the United States did not initiate the war.

"We didn't start this war. Iran did 47 years ago," he said.

The resolution, filed by Massie after losing a primary race backed by President Donald Trump, accuses Hegseth of “high crimes and misdemeanors” related to operations in Iran, Yemen and Venezuela, though the Constitution does not define the term. Hegseth said he stands behind every operation and would repeat them if asked.

"I was proud to execute them, and I would do it again tomorrow," he said.

He warned that the impeachment move could discourage service members, calling them heroes whose service should not be deemed criminal.