Republican US Representative Thomas Massie has introduced eight articles of impeachment against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, focusing on actions related to the conflicts in Iran, Venezuela, and Yemen, as well as free speech issues. Hegseth has denied any wrongdoing, while former President Trump has defended him and criticized Massie’s efforts.
Three charges concerning Iran claim that Hegseth directed military actions beyond a 60-day limit without proper congressional authorization. Another charge accuses him of violating laws that require minimizing civilian casualties during a military strike on a school in Minab, which resulted in numerous child fatalities.
Two charges related to Venezuela state that Hegseth directed the kidnapping of the country’s leader and authorized unlawful strikes that led to over 220 deaths. Additionally, he faces accusations of leading unlawful military operations in Yemen, particularly “Operation Rough Rider,” against Houthi fighters aligned with Iran.
Lastly, Hegseth is charged with retaliating against Democratic Senator Mark Kelly for exercising free speech. He attempted to prosecute Kelly and demote him from his retired Navy captain rank after Kelly and other Democrats urged US troops to disobey illegal orders.
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With information from Reuters
