Trump Defends Strikes on ‘Narco Boats’ as Hegseth Faces ‘War Crimes’ Accusations at Cabinet Meeting
WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump on Tuesday defended controversial strikes against alleged drug smuggling vessels in the Caribbean, as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced mounting scrutiny over the operations amid accusations of potential war crimes. The exchange occurred during a live-streamed Cabinet meeting at the White House, where Hegseth remained defiant regarding the September 2nd incidents.
The unfolding controversy centers on allegations that the U.S.military engaged in excessive force, resulting in civilian casualties. Reports indicate survivors claim they were targeted despite not posing an immediate threat. The incidents have sparked international concern and legal questions regarding the scope of U.S. authority to conduct such operations. The White House simultaneously defended its decision to release a jailed executive convicted of defrauding investors of $1.6 billion.
During the Cabinet meeting, Trump offered staunch support for Hegseth and the military actions, asserting the need to aggressively combat the flow of illegal narcotics into the United States. He characterized the targeted vessels as “narco boats” and framed the strikes as a necessary measure to protect national security.
Hegseth, addressing the accusations directly, maintained that the military acted within legal parameters and followed established rules of engagement. He asserted that the vessels were actively involved in drug trafficking and posed a threat to U.S. interests. Details of the specific rules of engagement were not disclosed during the public portion of the meeting.
The situation remains fluid as investigations continue. The Department of Defense has initiated an internal review of the incidents, while calls for an autonomous investigation from international organizations and legal advocacy groups are growing. The outcome of these investigations could have significant implications for U.S. military operations and international law.
