Brief Explanation of Trump's Scandal Involving War Crimes

The Trump administration is facing intensified scrutiny over a potential war crime linked to its operations against suspected drug traffickers.

What occurred?

Since early September, the US has targeted suspected drug boats in the Caribbean and Pacific, resulting in at least 83 fatalities. The first attack, on September 2, has drawn particular attention after reports indicated that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth instructed forces to kill everybody aboard one vessel.

Details of the strike

• The initial strike in the Caribbean killed 11 people on a small boat.
• Four missiles were fired, including a follow-up attack that killed two survivors.
• The Pentagon was aware that some individuals survived the first strike, but the second attack proceeded regardless.

International law perspective

Targeting defenseless people at sea is considered a clear violation of international law and the Pentagons own law of war manual. The key point of contention is identifying who authorized the follow-up strike on September 2. Hegseth claims he was absent during the decision, asserting that Adm. Frank Bradley issued the order.

Legal and broader implications

Experts argue the Trump administration lacked legal grounds for any of the strikes. Its claim of a noninternational armed conflict with drug cartels has been widely dismissed as without merit.

Next steps

Congress has launched a rare bipartisan investigation into the September 2 attack. Lawmakers recently viewed footage of the strike and heard testimony from military officials. Democratic Rep. Jim Himes described the event as one of the most troubling things Ive seen in my time in public service.

Author: Jackson Miller