WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Yassamin Ansari, a Democratic congresswoman from Arizona, and Rep. John Larson of Connecticut filed six articles of impeachment against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Wednesday. The articles accuse Hegseth of high crimes and misdemeanors in relation to an unauthorized attack on Iran, deadly strikes on suspected drug-smuggling boats, sharing classified information on Signal, and other official acts.

The articles include allegations that Hegseth withheld material facts relating to civilian casualties and operational conduct in Iran and Venezuela. They also allege that Hegseth attempted to punish Sen. Mark Kelly, a retired U.S. Navy captain, for reminding service members that they can refuse illegal orders. A separate article alleges that Hegseth forced transgender service members out of the military.

"He committed a war crime in Iran with the attack on a school that killed over 160 children. So not only do we need to end this war, but we need to hold accountable and prosecute anyone in the US administration who may have committed war crimes," Ansari said.

She also called for broader congressional support for the impeachment effort. "So I have no doubt that if this absolute clown – this former Fox News, not even a real anchor – continues in his position, there will be more, and we will get more support and I urge my colleagues to join me. He is a national security risk to the United States," Ansari said.

No response from Hegseth or the Pentagon was available at the time of the filing. Articles of impeachment filed in the House do not automatically lead to a trial; they must first be referred to committee and then receive a majority vote on the House floor before proceeding to the Senate.