Republican congressman calls to impeach US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth | US-Israel war on Iran News
GOP Representative Pushes for Impeachment Vote Against Defense Secretary
By Brian Osgood
Published on September 15, 2026
U.S. Representative Thomas Massie, a Republican from Kentucky, is advocating for the impeachment of Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, emerging as a notable critic of U.S. military interventions, particularly in Iran.
On Tuesday, Massie presented articles of impeachment against Hegseth in the House of Representatives, alleging that the Secretary has engaged in military activities without Congressional approval, conducted extrajudicial killings, and overlooked the impact of military operations on civilians.
“Secretary Hegseth abused the powers entrusted to him,” Massie stated, arguing that Hegseth has compromised constitutional limits on military force and has prioritized his policy objectives over legal conduct during hostilities. He characterized the Secretary’s actions as exhibiting a “profound disregard” for civilian life.
Hegseth has faced scrutiny for his role in the ongoing U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran and has been criticized for his dismissive comments regarding protections intended to minimize civilian casualties. He has referred to such regulations as “stupid” and “politically correct,” claiming they impede military effectiveness.
While a vote on the resolution to impeach Hegseth may occur in the coming days, it is expected to struggle in the Republican-majority House of Representatives, where support for such measures is limited.
The Pentagon has publicly backed Hegseth. Pentagon press secretary Kingsley Wilson stated in an email to Reuters that the department remains aligned with Hegseth’s leadership, emphasizing a commitment to prioritizing military personnel and national interests.
Although polls suggest that most Republicans support the U.S. stance on Iran, dissenting voices are emerging. Massie, along with figures like media personality Tucker Carlson, has increasingly criticized the Trump administration’s interventionist foreign policy.
In the backdrop of this political turmoil, President Donald Trump, who promised to reduce U.S. military engagement during his 2024 campaign, has previously criticized Massie for his opposition to the Iran war and for attempting to compel the government to release the Epstein Files.
Massie faced significant challenges in his political career, losing a primary race in May to a Trump-endorsed candidate amid heavy spending by pro-Israel groups.
