US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has strongly denied claims that he ordered a military team to "leave no survivors" after a controversial boat strike in the Caribbean. The incident reportedly involved a strike so powerful it "blew two men apart," raising serious concerns about the conduct of US forces in the region.
Reports surfaced suggesting Hegseth gave an illegal command during the operation, allegedly instructing troops to kill every individual involved. This has sparked a debate about rules of engagement and military ethics in actions against suspected drug traffickers or militants in Caribbean waters.
Hegseth firmly refuted the allegations, emphasizing that no such order to "kill everybody" was given. He highlighted that military operations adhere strictly to international laws and US military protocols designed to minimize civilian casualties.
“Such claims are categorically false and misrepresent the facts surrounding the incident,” Hegseth stated in a press conference.
The boat strike occurred during a US military operation targeting illicit trafficking routes in the Caribbean. While specifics remain classified, reports mention the use of heavy firepower, which tragically resulted in fatalities, including two men who were "blown apart" in the attack.
This controversy has reignited discussions about the transparency and accountability of US military operations overseas. Advocates stress the importance of clear rules of engagement to prevent unnecessary loss of life and uphold human rights standards.
The denial by Defense Secretary Hegseth underscores the complexity and sensitivity of military actions against suspected criminals in contested waters, balancing operational security with ethical conduct.