Rand Paul Demands Pete Hegseth to Provide Sworn Testimony About Attack on Survivors

Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) has urged Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to provide sworn testimony regarding the specific instructions given before a lethal double-tap strike on survivors of an alleged drug smuggling vessel in early September. Paul made his statement on Capitol Hill Thursday after a briefing for lawmakers led by Admiral Frank Mitch Bradley and General Dan Cain, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Paul has consistently criticized the Trump administrations aggressive operations targeting drug smuggling boats in the Caribbean Sea. Critics accuse Hegseth and Admiral Bradley, who authorized the attack on survivors, of committing potential war crimes, arguing that targeting incapacitated or distressed individuals violates U.S. and international law.

He should testify under oath about the orders given, and the footage showing shipwrecked or helpless people being attacked should be made public to every American, Paul told reporters.

Earlier in the week, Paul condemned Hegseth for providing conflicting accounts regarding the second strike. He stated, It appears they are trying to shift blame elsewhere. On Sunday, the secretary claimed he had no knowledge of the strike and dismissed it as fake news. Yet the following day, it was confirmed from the White House podium that it did occur. Either he misled us on Sunday or he was unaware of the events, which is equally troubling.

Author: Caleb Jennings