Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is under intense scrutiny following a series of military strikes conducted by the Trump administration against alleged drug-smuggling vessels in the Caribbean. The operations, which began on September 2, resulted in the deaths of at least 87 individuals, including survivors of an initial strike who were reportedly targeted in a subsequent attack. This has prompted significant criticism from lawmakers and human rights organizations regarding the legality and humanitarian implications of such military actions.

The Pentagon authorized a second missile strike on the same vessel shortly after the first, which killed eleven people. Reports indicate that the second strike occurred after survivors were seen clinging to wreckage, raising concerns about potential violations of international law. Democratic lawmakers, including Representative Jim Himes, have described the footage of these strikes as deeply troubling, with some suggesting that the actions could be classified as war crimes. In contrast, Republican Senator Tom Cotton defended the strikes as lawful and necessary to combat drug trafficking.

Hegseth has characterized the military actions as part of a broader campaign against drug trafficking, asserting that they are essential for national security. However, the administration has not provided public evidence to substantiate claims that the targeted vessels were involved in drug smuggling, leading to skepticism about the justification for military engagement in these circumstances.

The White House confirmed the occurrence of the strikes but denied that Hegseth ordered the second attack, attributing the decision to Navy Admiral Frank "Mitch" Bradley. Hegseth has stated that the Pentagon is reviewing whether to release video footage of the incidents, emphasizing the need for responsible handling of such materials. President Trump has expressed support for releasing all footage related to the strikes, although Hegseth has not committed to a timeline for this disclosure.

In addition to the controversies surrounding the strikes, Hegseth has faced criticism for his use of a Signal chat to disclose sensitive information regarding military operations, which an inspector general's report suggested may have endangered U.S. personnel. Bipartisan discontent with Hegseth's leadership has emerged, with some lawmakers calling for accountability and transparency regarding the military's actions. As the situation develops, there are indications that military operations may expand, potentially escalating U.S. involvement in the region, particularly concerning Venezuela, where President Nicolás Maduro has denied allegations of drug trafficking and criticized U.S. military actions.