A recent US military operation in the Caribbean Sea has started a major argument in Washington. The event involved attacks on a Venezuelan boat suspected of carrying drugs. The first strike was followed by a second one that killed people who had survived the initial explosion. The White House says the commander on the scene approved the second attack. This decision is now being investigated by both Democratic and Republican lawmakers, with some accusing the military of possible wrongdoing.
This operation is part of a larger, stronger campaign against drug trafficking that began under President Trump. The President has stated clearly that countries which help send drugs to the US could face a military answer. Since early September, this policy has led to several deadly strikes in the Caribbean, killing more than 80 people. However, critics point out that the US government rarely shows clear public evidence about the illegal activities of the targets, often releasing only short, unclear videos.
The main controversy is about what officials call a "double tap" strike. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said he watched the first strike live but left before the second one. He said he had a meeting and that smoke and fire blocked the view. The choice to carry out the second strike was made by Navy Admiral Frank Bradley at the scene. The White House supports his decision, saying he acted within his legal authority.
This explanation has not stopped growing worry in Congress. Lawmakers are demanding full reviews and more transparency. Several Democratic senators are leading calls to examine the legal and ethical issues of targeting survivors. They have asked for key legal documents and the full video of the operation to be released. Some even suggest Secretary Hegseth should resign if he was responsible for the order.
The incident raises bigger questions about using military force against drug traffickers, how such remote strikes are supervised, and international law at sea. Furthermore, President Trump has suggested expanding these actions to land targets. As Congress prepares to investigate, there will be a serious examination of the balance between national security and legal ethics.