URGENT UPDATE: Republican Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina has called for immediate accountability from whoever ordered a lethal strike on survivors of the Pentagon’s recent boat attack. Speaking to reporters just moments ago, Tillis stated that if the order is “substantiated,” those responsible “need to get the hell out of Washington.”
This explosive statement comes after White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that the U.S. military executed a second strike against survivors of an initial attack targeting suspected drug traffickers. Leavitt insisted that Adm. Frank Bradley, head of Special Operations Command, acted lawfully in approving the strike.
Why does this matter NOW? The strike campaign, which has been underway for nearly three months, marks a significant escalation in U.S. military operations in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, raising ethical and legal concerns. Lawmakers from both parties are demanding greater congressional oversight following revelations from The Washington Post that a commander ordered a follow-up strike on September 2, resulting in the deaths of two survivors under what was allegedly a verbal directive from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to “kill everyone on board.”
Recent reports indicate that at least 83 people have died in over 20 strikes, with the September 2 incident alone accounting for 11 fatalities. Critics, including former military lawyers, warn that these operations may violate both domestic and international laws, potentially leading to legal ramifications for U.S. personnel involved.
The White House’s acknowledgment of the second strike has intensified scrutiny. In response to the growing backlash, Hegseth has labeled the coverage as “fake news” and emphasized that the operations are lawful, adhering to the rules of armed conflict.
“If a follow-up attack on the suspected drug boat occurred as described, that would be very serious, and I agree that that would be an illegal act,” stated Representative Michael Turner, chair of the House Intelligence Committee.
As the situation evolves, Senate Armed Services Committee leaders Roger Wicker and Jack Reed are calling for “vigorous oversight” to uncover the truth behind the September 2 mission and subsequent strikes. The White House has indicated that President Donald Trump will continue reviewing the situation, with a national security meeting scheduled for later today to discuss ongoing operations in the Caribbean.
This is a developing story, and updates will follow as more information becomes available. Stay tuned for immediate updates on this urgent situation.
