Pete Hegseth rejects Republicans’ accusations / Defense Secretary denounces a “political spectacle”

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth rejected on Tuesday the accusations that could lead to his impeachment, calling Republican Thomas Massie’s effort “a political spectacle.” The statements were made at the Pentagon during Hegseth’s first press conference in an extended period.

Hegseth argued that the initiative was not a genuine effort at oversight or accountability, but a personal attack motivated by “ego and resentment.” He accused Massie of attempting to harm the Donald Trump administration, the United States and American service members.

The Defense Secretary also defended Operation Epic Fury against Iran, which he described as a historic military victory. Hegseth said President Donald Trump made a difficult but correct decision for America’s safety and security.

The impeachment effort was initiated on Monday, when Thomas Massie presented the articles of impeachment, triggering the two-day period before a vote in the House of Representatives. The accusations concern launching a war against Iran without congressional approval, as well as alleged abuses of power. Hegseth argued that no Defense Secretary has previously faced a similar procedure over controversial military operations carried out in Lebanon, Kosovo, Iraq and Syria.