Urgent Update: Second Strike Kills Survivors of Drug Boat Attack
URGENT UPDATE: The U.S. military has confirmed a controversial second strike on a vessel off the coast of Venezuela, resulting in the deaths of two survivors from an earlier attack. This revelation has sparked intense legal scrutiny and calls for accountability from lawmakers.
Reports from September 2, 2023, indicate that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered the strike to eliminate anyone remaining aboard the targeted boat, which was allegedly involved in drug trafficking. Legal experts assert that this action, which led to a total of 11 fatalities, violates both peacetime laws and the laws governing armed conflict.
“We are not in an armed conflict with drug cartels,” stated Michael Schmitt, a former Air Force lawyer. He emphasized that lethal force can only be used in imminent threat situations, which was not applicable in this case. Schmitt condemned the order, noting, “It is clearly unlawful.”
The White House defended the strike, claiming it was conducted in self-defense and in accordance with the law of armed conflict. However, the situation is far from clear, as President Donald Trump expressed discomfort with the directive, stating, “I wouldn’t have wanted that — not a second strike.”
The political fallout is escalating, with Sen. Mark Kelly and other Democratic lawmakers urging military personnel to refuse illegal orders. Kelly emphasized the need for transparency, stating, “There needs to be an inquiry into the report of the strike killing survivors.”
Within the Pentagon, investigations are underway, led by the Armed Services committees in both the House and Senate. Sen. Roger Wicker, chairman of the Senate committee, announced that they will conduct “vigorous oversight” to ascertain the facts surrounding these strikes.
Legal experts warn that U.S. military personnel could face prosecution for actions taken during these attacks. “Murder on the high seas is a crime,” cautioned Brian Finucane from the International Crisis Group, highlighting the grave implications for military conduct in international waters.
As the debate continues, the administration insists the counterdrug operations are necessary to combat the drug crisis in the U.S. However, the legality of these operations is under heavy scrutiny, raising questions about military ethics and adherence to the law.
WHAT’S NEXT: Expect ongoing investigations and potential congressional hearings regarding the legality and morality of the strikes. The implications for U.S. military operations and international law could be significant, making this a developing story to watch closely.
Stay tuned for more updates as this situation evolves.
