In brief
During a recent White House cabinet meeting, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth justified a follow-up military strike on a drug-carrying boat in the Caribbean, stating he was unaware of any survivors during the attack. This controversial strike is under congressional review, with ongoing discussions about military protocols as the Pentagon prepares briefings for lawmakers. President Trump admitted to knowing little about the event, relying on Hegseth for information.
WASHINGTON (AP) — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth came under scrutiny during a cabinet meeting this Tuesday as he defended a follow-up military strike on an alleged drug-carrying boat in the Caribbean Sea that occurred earlier this year. Hegseth referenced the 'fog of war,' claiming that he was not aware of any survivors in the water when the second strike was ordered in early September. He noted that the boat was 'on fire' and stated that he did not remain on the scene after the initial strike, asserting that the admiral in charge of the operation made 'the right call' and had 'complete authority' to carry out the action.The Washington Post reported that a verbal order for the second strike, which resulted in the death of survivors, was issued by Hegseth. The White House has supported Navy Vice Adm. Frank 'Mitch' Bradley's decision, stating that it was performed 'within his authority and the law.'In light of these events, lawmakers have initiated congressional reviews regarding the recent U.S. military strikes against vessels alleged of drug smuggling. Bradley is scheduled to provide classified briefings to lawmakers in the coming days regarding the military's operations. President Donald Trump, when questioned about his views on the September strike, stated, 'I didn’t know anything' and shared that he had yet to gather adequate information as he relies heavily on Hegseth for insights.
