WASHINGTON – Questions are being raised about a military operation in the Caribbean Sea. Reports indicate that after an initial strike on a boat suspected of carrying drugs, the U.S. military conducted a second strike, even though there were reportedly survivors from the first attack.
Sources familiar with the matter, who chose to remain anonymous, claim the second strike was carried out to ensure the boat sank. The previous administration stated that all eleven individuals on board lost their lives.
The focus now shifts to determining who authorized the strikes and whether then-Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth was involved. These details are under scrutiny as lawmakers begin to investigate the legality of the military operation.
Admiral Frank “Mitch” Bradley, the commander the Trump administration says ordered the second strike, is expected to provide answers during a closed-door congressional briefing.
The Pentagon has not yet commented on these new details regarding the September 2nd incident.
Hegseth is facing increased attention regarding the strikes on suspected drug trafficking vessels in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific. Concerns are being raised, particularly about the strike that may have resulted in the deaths of survivors from the first attack. Some legal experts and lawmakers argue that such action might have violated laws governing armed conflict.
The prior administration has maintained the U.S. is engaged in an “armed conflict” with drug cartels, even without formal congressional authorization for military action in the region.
President Trump previously stated that he would consider releasing video footage of the second strike, responding to requests from Democratic lawmakers.
This situation highlights the challenges faced by our military as they work to combat drug trafficking and defend our nation’s interests. It is essential that our leaders have the authority to act decisively, but also that all actions are conducted within the bounds of the law and with a careful consideration of the potential consequences.
