Pete Hegseth, under fire from Republicans over his role in the Iran war

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth is facing growing criticism from Democrats and some Republicans over his role in the war with Iran, as Republicans search for explanations for their heavy midterm election defeat. Republican Congressman Thomas Massie plans to pursue impeachment proceedings against him when Congress resumes, while Hegseth says he will remain in office and President Donald Trump has publicly backed him.

Hegseth advocated military intervention before the conflict began on 28 February and continued defending the campaign after it lasted longer than the initially forecast two or three days and used up strategic munitions. Massie says Hegseth acted without the required congressional authority in Iran and in the operation to capture Nicolás Maduro, and lacked judicial authorisation for strikes on suspected drug-smuggling boats. The effort could prompt a House vote, but Massie is due to leave Congress after losing his primary.