House Democrats filed articles of impeachment Wednesday against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, charging him with high crimes and misdemeanors related to the ongoing U.S. military operations in Iran.

Rep. Yassamin Ansari (D-Ariz.), daughter of Iranian immigrants, introduced the six articles with 12 cosponsors, including Reps. Al Green (D-Texas), Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.) and Shri Thanedar (D-Mich.). The measure accuses Hegseth of violating his oath, engaging in unauthorized warfare and committing abuses of power.

The articles detail specific allegations. Article I claims Hegseth launched strikes against Iran without congressional approval and approved high-risk plans, including potential ground operations, endangering U.S. troops. Article II alleges violations of the law of armed conflict, including civilian targeting such as the February 28 bombing of a girls' school in Minab, Iran, that killed 168 people. A U.S. assessment indicated likely responsibility but possible error.

Article III cites "Signalgate," where Hegseth shared classified details of Yemen operations in a private Signal chat. Article IV accuses him of obstructing Congress by withholding information on Iran and Venezuela actions. Article V charges abuse of power through politicization, including probes against political opponents like Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.). Article VI faults conduct undermining U.S. credibility, such as NATO criticism and social policies on DEI and transgender service members.

"Pete Hegseth broke his oath to the Constitution, put U.S. troops at grave risk... and carried out unlawful military actions," Ansari said in a statement. Progressive groups like MoveOn and Indivisible endorsed the effort.

Pentagon spokesman Kingsley Wilson dismissed the resolution as "another charade" to distract from "major successes" in Iran, stating Hegseth would continue projecting "peace through strength."

The push follows earlier efforts, including H.Res. 935 by Thanedar in December 2025. With Republicans holding a House majority, the articles face dim prospects, though Democrats could revive them post-2026 midterms.

Hegseth, sworn in January 2025, has overseen Iran strikes amid President Trump's demands to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Recent actions include firing Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George and skipping Ukraine meetings.