Democrats move to impeach US Defence Secretary over Iran war claims

US lawmakers from the Democratic Party have filed six impeachment articles against Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, accusing him of misconduct including allegedly launching military action against Iran without congressional approval.

The impeachment effort is being spearheaded by Representative Yassamin Ansari, but faces steep opposition in the Republican-controlled House of Representatives.

Ansari wrote on X: “I’ve introduced Articles of Impeachment against Pete Hegseth for violating his oath, endangering U.S. servicemembers, and committing war crimes, including attacks on civilians and a girls’ school in Minab, Iran.”

She added: “Only Congress can declare war; his actions demand immediate removal.”

One article of impeachment accuses Hegseth of starting hostilities with Iran “without a declaration of war or specific statutory authorization by the Congress,” putting US troops at serious risk.

Another ties him to a February 28 airstrike on a school in Iran that reportedly killed 170 people, including children and teachers, with reports suggesting it may have been caused by a targeting error involving a US missile.

Democrats also allege violations of the laws of armed conflict, including responsibility for civilian casualties.

Further accusations include controversial “double tap” strikes on suspected drug trafficking vessels in the Caribbean, alleged mishandling of sensitive military information, and obstructing oversight by using encrypted messaging apps for military discussions.

Pentagon press secretary Kingsley Wilson rejected the allegations, saying it was “just another Democrat trying to make headlines” following US operations in Iran.

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