Congress Investigates Pentagon Chief’s Order for a Second Strike on Vessel

The United States has launched an investigation into the circumstances of an operation conducted by American forces off the coast of Trinidad. The reason was reports that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, during discussions of the operation, gave an oral order to kill everyone on board the vessel, which was considered part of a smuggling network. According to open sources, the operation was part of actions carried out within the framework of a new anti-narcotics campaign announced by the administration. At the time of the operation, the military acted under heightened secrecy, and details became known later through journalists’ publications. According to existing information, a naval special operations unit launched a missile strike on a small vessel located in the waters off the coast of Trinidad on the second of September. As a result of the first strike, the vessel was destroyed and caught fire. After the explosion, two individuals ended up in the water, holding onto debris that remained afloat. Special operations command issued instructions to prepare a second strike on the remaining survivors. According to sources, the decision for the repeated attack was based on an oral order discussed during operational coordination. As details of the operation emerged, questions were raised in Congress regarding compliance with regulations governing the use of force abroad, as well as whether the actions of command aligned with established operational rules. Committees overseeing military activity requested documents and materials related to the planning and execution of the operation. Members of the legislative branch stated that it is necessary to examine the decision-making process and determine whether it met existing requirements. As part of the review, attention is focused on issues related to rules of engagement applicable to military units conducting operations outside the United States. The investigation materials examine details of order transmission, the sequence of events, and command actions during the operation. Representatives of the armed forces stated that they are ready to provide necessary information for assessment. Their statements indicated that certain stages of the operation may require mandatory review for compliance with internal regulations. Congress emphasized that the inquiry is being conducted within standard procedures aimed at analyzing the actions of military units. Working groups conducting the investigation are focusing on questions related to the authority of officials involved in decision-making and evaluating whether appropriate oversight mechanisms were used. Discussions noted that final conclusions will be based on comparing available information about the operation with existing rules. The review covers both political and procedural aspects. Committee representatives are examining information related to the involvement of the defense secretary in operational discussions, including procedures concerning oral orders that influence operational decision-making. It is noted that the investigation does not aim to reassess outcomes of other operations but concerns this specific incident. Additional attention is given to the interaction between civilian leadership and military structures during foreign operations. It is expected that upon completion of the review, committees will present a report with conclusions on whether the actions of the individuals involved complied with established standards. According to members of the legislative branch, the results will determine whether adjustments to existing procedures are required.

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