Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth addressed the video release concerning a controversial military operation targeting a drug-smuggling boat. The operation, which occurred on September 2, resulted in the deaths of eleven suspects. Reports surrounding the incident have generated significant scrutiny and debate about military conduct.
Details of the Operation
During a forum at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California, Hegseth confirmed that a thorough review is underway to assess whether to release video footage of the incident. He stated, “Whatever we were to decide to release, we’d have to be very responsible about reviewing that right now.”
Second Strike Controversy
Following the initial attack, reports surfaced indicating that a second missile was launched. This strike allegedly killed two survivors from the first attack, igniting discussions about military ethics and legal implications. Hegseth clarified that Navy Adm. Frank “Mitch” Bradley, head of Special Operations Command, had made the decision for the second strike. He emphasized, “In this particular case, it was well within the authorities of Adm. Bradley.”
Congressional Briefing
In a closed-door session on Thursday, congressional lawmakers reviewed video footage related to the strikes. Upon reviewing the incident, GOP Sen. Tom Cotton and Rep. Jim Himes reported that Adm. Bradley stated he was not instructed to ensure that there were no survivors left from the operation.
Allegations of a Kill Order
Amid the backlash, Hegseth has vehemently denied allegations that he ordered the elimination of all individuals aboard the vessel. He responded to these claims, saying, “You don’t walk in and say ‘Kill them all.’ It’s just patently ridiculous.” Despite denying the issuance of a kill order, Hegseth reiterated his support for the actions taken during the operation.
Ongoing Military Operations
The September 2 strike marked the first in a series of attacks on drug-trafficking vessels in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific. The Pentagon has reported that at least 87 individuals have died in 22 separate vessel strikes. Hegseth stated that operations against drug trafficking will persist, asserting, “We are killing them. We will keep killing them so long as they are poisoning our people with narcotics.”
Public and Administration Statements
Former President Trump expressed his willingness to release all footage related to the strikes. He stated, “I don’t know what they have, but whatever they have we’ll certainly release, no problem.” However, Hegseth remained noncommittal about the release of the video during his appearance.
Legal and Ethical Implications
Legal analysts have raised concerns regarding the potential classification of the second strike as a war crime. There is currently no evidence presented by the administration confirming that the vessels were engaged in drug trafficking.
- Event: September 2 missile strikes on drug boat
- Casualties: 11 killed in initial strike; 2 survivors struck in second missile attack
- Responsible Official: Navy Adm. Frank “Mitch” Bradley
- Current Status: Footage under review; decision pending on release
- Total Strikes: 22 vessel strikes resulting in at least 87 casualties
