Senate Republicans are currently at odds regarding the September 2 attack in the Caribbean, with some believing it was necessary to neutralize a suspected drug-smuggling vessel. Meanwhile, others are raising questions about the legality of the Double Tap attack as Congressional inquiries into the incident increase.
The Senate and House Armed Services Committees are gearing up for hearings concerning the airstrike. It has been reported that Army Secretary Pete Hegseth authorized a second strike on what was believed to be a drug smuggling ship, a move that received approval from the White House.
Within the Republican Party, opinions appear to be split on the way forward. Some back Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Roger Wicker’s request for tighter scrutiny of the event, while others view the strike as part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to combat domestic drug issues.
Senator Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) expressed strong support for taking out drug traffickers, stating, “I think the more drug terrorists we kill, the more American lives we save,” and indicated he feels no concern about lethal actions meant to protect Americans.
White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt confirmed that Hegseth approved the second strike but clarified that the operation was directed by Admiral Frank Bradley of U.S. Special Operations Command. This comes amid controversy following a Washington Post article stating Hegseth ordered to “kill everyone,” which some lawmakers have challenged.
Senator John Kennedy (R-Louisiana) criticized the reporting, suggesting it was based on anonymous sources and lacked a direct quote from Hegseth. He also dismissed the importance of Leavitt’s comments regarding the order’s legitimacy, implying they were insufficient to clarify the situation.
Despite the tension, some Republicans seek clarity on the events leading to the attack. Senate Majority Leader John Thune acknowledged that a natural investigation by relevant committees could provide insights but avoided taking a definitive stance on the appropriateness of the second strike.
Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) emphasized the importance of uncovering the truth behind the reported second strike, indicating that if an explicit order was given to kill, it might breach ethical and legal standards. He noted the heightened emotions surrounding the issue, using phrases like “rage fodder,” indicative of the charged atmosphere in political discourse.
Meanwhile, Senate Democrats are urging for a comprehensive investigation, grappling with whether the attack constitutes a war crime. Senator Jack Reed (D-R.I.), who leads the Senate Armed Services Committee, plans to meet with Admiral Bradley this week to discuss the details surrounding the strike.
Reed highlighted that addressing the legality of the incident under both military and international law is critical, suggesting that releasing a video of the attack could help clarify the situation.
Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.) has vocally criticized the administration’s actions in the Caribbean and has worked to limit President Trump’s military powers. He emphasized the importance of determining if a war crime occurred during the incident.
Senator Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) called for caution, pointing out the need to fully understand what happened before labeling the incident as a war crime. He expressed concern that if survivors were indeed present when the second strike occurred, it could represent a serious breach of legal conduct.
