US Defence Chief Says He Didn’t See Survivors After Boat Strike
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has said he did not personally witness any survivors after the first strike on an alleged drug-smuggling boat, adding that he left the command centre soon after the initial attack. His comments come amid rising scrutiny over a second strike that reportedly killed individuals who were still alive after the first blast.
What Hegseth Said
Hegseth stated that he monitored the first strike through a live feed but “did not stick around” to see the aftermath. He said he did not personally observe survivors and was informed about further developments only later. He defended the broader mission, saying US forces would continue operations against maritime drug-trafficking networks.
What Sparked the Controversy
The issue centres around a reported second strike on the same boat. According to multiple accounts, two individuals were alive and clinging to wreckage after the first attack. A second strike was then ordered, resulting in their deaths. This has led lawmakers and legal experts to question whether the action complied with international humanitarian law.
Government and Legal Response
US defence officials maintain that the follow-up strike was legal and necessary, arguing the individuals could still pose a threat. However, bipartisan calls for a full investigation are growing, with demands to examine the rules of engagement and whether the strike adhered to established protocols.
Why It Matters
The case has triggered debate over accountability in overseas military operations, especially those involving non-state actors outside formal war zones. The outcome of the inquiry may shape future policy on lethal force in counter-narcotics missions and determine whether new safeguards or oversight mechanisms are required.
