Kathmandu— US Air Force Major Jason Watson is facing military charges stemming from his public calls for the impeachment and removal of President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, reportedly in response to the US-Israel war on Iran. The charges, brought under a rarely used provision of the Uniform Code of Military Justice, accuse him of using contemptuous language against the president and vice president. Watson was initially detained in July while protesting near the US Capitol, and has continued to voice his criticisms publicly, including an appearance on CNN earlier this month.

Public Criticism and Initial Detention

Major Jason Watson participated in a protest organized by the Removal Coalition outside the US Capitol in July, holding a sign calling for the removal of President Trump and Vice President Vance. He was detained by police while still wearing his military uniform, becoming what the Removal Coalition described as “the first active duty officer in the military to call for Trump’s impeachment and removal from office.” Watson subsequently appeared on CNN where he reiterated his stance, stating that President Trump had “failed” the country and was violating the Constitution.

Rarely Used Military Provision

The Air Force has charged Watson under Article 88 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice – a rarely invoked provision which prohibits using “contemptuous words against the President, the Vice President, Congress.” His lawyer, Christopher Mutimer, acknowledged the risks Watson faced by speaking out. “Major Watson acted knowing the risks to his career and his liberty,” Mutimer said on Tuesday. “It is my hope that other Americans who feel powerless in this moment will take some measure of courage from his willingness to speak and to stand by his convictions.”

Due Process and Pre-Trial Confinement

The Air Force confirmed the charges against Watson, stating he would remain in pre-trial confinement while being afforded due process under military law. The specific details of the charges include three articles under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, with Article 88 forming a central component of the case.

Watson remains in pre-trial confinement as the legal proceedings move forward, and the Air Force has affirmed its commitment to ensuring he receives due process.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.