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Hegseth or Admiral Bradley: Who approved the second Venezuela boat strike?

Hegseth or Admiral Bradley: Who approved the second Venezuela boat strike?

Summary

President Trump's administration faces controversy over a second military strike on a drug boat in the Caribbean, which killed two people who survived an earlier attack. There is debate over who ordered the second strike and whether it was legal, with Congress now investigating. This military action is part of a larger effort by the U.S. to combat drug trafficking in the region.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. military conducted a strike on a drug boat in the Caribbean on September 2, 2025, led by Operation Southern Spear.
  • The first strike killed nine people, and two survivors were left in the water.
  • Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reportedly instructed the mission, and Admiral Frank Bradley ordered a second strike.
  • The second strike, known as a "double tap," killed the two survivors and is being questioned for its legality.
  • Both Democrats and Republicans in Congress are criticizing the strikes and plan to investigate.
  • The Senate Armed Services Committee has announced its intent to oversee the inquiry into the matter.
  • Over 80 people have died, and more than 20 boats have been targeted by this larger U.S. operation.
  • Pete Hegseth defended the actions, stating they were within legal frameworks and aimed at stopping drug traffickers.

Source Information