U.S. Department of War·Nov 10, 2026, 2:02 PM ET

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth Holds a Press Briefing

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth condemned a single disgruntled Congressman's impeachment resolution as a political spectacle driven by ego rather than valid oversight.
Hegseth asserted that no Secretary of War or Defense has ever been impeached for executing lawful and successful military operations under previous administrations.
The Secretary characterized the impeachment articles as policy disagreements that do not constitute high crimes or misdemeanors as defined by the Constitution.
Hegseth detailed successful military operations including Operation Rough Rider against Houthis, Operation Midnight Hammer striking Iranian nuclear sites, and Operation Epic Fury which he claimed destroyed Iran's military and industrial base.
He highlighted the Counter Cartel Coalition's success in sinking over 70 narco vessels, killing 218 terrorists, and reducing maritime smuggling by at least 65 percent.
The Secretary noted the capture of Nicolas Maduro in 48 minutes, the expulsion of China from Panama, and NATO allies committing to 5 percent of GDP for defense.
Hegseth confirmed 18 American service members died during Operation Epic Fury while no casualties occurred in the Venezuela mission.
He reported historic recruiting records across all five military services, reinstated over 600 service members, and implemented a 20 percent cut in senior officer billets.
The Secretary defended all operations as lawful orders from the Commander-in-Chief that did not target civilians, rejecting accusations of war crimes as lies.
Hegseth expressed strong support for Stephen Miller becoming Chief of Staff, citing his role in establishing the Counter Cartel Coalition and securing the border.
He stated the Department is actively engaging with Republican leadership on Capitol Hill to reject the impeachment resolution.
The Secretary emphasized the need for a minimum $350 billion in funding for the Department of War during the current legislative session.
Hegseth affirmed that the U.S. maintains an ironclad blockade on Iran and will continue to monitor and act against any attempts by the regime to reconstitute its nuclear capabilities.