Summary
The U.S. military conducted a second strike on a Venezuelan boat in September, even after a first attack had nearly destroyed it. Reports suggest this method, called a "double-tap" strike, targeted the same location twice, which sometimes affects those aiding initial victims. The U.S. has used similar strikes in other countries like Yemen in the past.
Key Facts
- A top U.S. Navy commander ordered a second strike on a Venezuelan drug boat in September 2023.
- The first strike almost destroyed the boat and resulted in nine deaths.
- The second strike reportedly killed two survivors who were clinging to debris.
- Reports say the second strike followed a verbal order from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, which he denies.
- The White House stated that the actions were within legal authority.
- Double-tap strikes involve hitting the same target twice, potentially harming medics and civilians aiding victims of the first strike.
- The U.S. has previously used double-tap strikes in Yemen in both 2025 and 2017.
- The concept of double-tap strikes has been documented and questioned by international watchdogs and has affected civilian areas.
