US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has stated he did not observe survivors prior to a second strike on a suspected drug boat in the Caribbean on September 2. The incident has raised questions regarding adherence to the laws of armed conflict.
Incident Details
The initial strike on the vessel reportedly left two individuals alive and clinging to the burning boat. A subsequent strike was then authorized, which allegedly resulted in their deaths.
During a cabinet meeting, Secretary Hegseth indicated that he watched the initial strike live but subsequently departed for another meeting. He stated, "I did not personally see survivors," attributing the scene's obscurity to the vessel being on fire and exploding, describing the situation as "the fog of war." Hegseth further mentioned that he learned of Admiral Frank Bradley's decision to sink the boat several hours later and expressed support for Bradley's action.
Official Responses
The White House has confirmed that US Navy Admiral Frank Bradley authorized the second strike. President Trump also defended Admiral Bradley's actions, though he clarified that the administration was not aware of the follow-on strike beforehand. President Trump stated his preference for "those boats taken out." The Washington Post was the first to report details of the second strike, prompting concern from both Democratic and Republican lawmakers.
Broader Context
Since early September, more than 80 fatalities have been reported in a series of similar strikes across the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific. The Trump administration has consistently defended these operations, characterizing them as necessary self-defense measures to combat illicit drug trafficking and protect American lives.