Conservative Commentators Celebrate Violence in the Caribbean

The Trump administration has been endorsing controversial military airstrikes against suspected drug-running vessels in the Caribbean for several months. These operations, often of questionable legality, have left charred remains washing ashore, alarming locals who believe they are victims of these attacks.

Reports suggest that one strike in early September may have violated international conflict rules after a follow-up missile targeted survivors. Despite the growing scrutiny, conservative commentators continue to praise the attacks. Families of those killed and the wider public have yet to receive clear explanations for why these individualsincluding some fishermen with no known criminal activitywere targeted.

The administration has justified these actions by labeling the victims as terrorists, mirroring the rationale used for previous detentions, deportations, and other forceful measures. While some Republican officials question the legality of these maritime operations and the broad authority claimed by the administration, commentators and influencers who previously criticized the Biden administration for similar acts are urging continued military aggression.

Former Fox News anchor Megyn Kelly expressed a desire for extended suffering for those on the targeted boats during her podcast. Fox host Greg Gutfeld suggested eliminating suspected terrorists at sea, even if they might be innocent fishermen. Commentator Stephen Crowder dismissed opposition as unpatriotic, while Rep. Dan Crenshaw defended the second strike, citing past counterterrorism practices.

Vice President J.D. Vance criticized bureaucratic resistance to military action against narco-terrorists, and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem claimed the administration prevented hundreds of millions of deaths by targeting cocaine shipments.

According to the Department of Defense Law of War manual, individuals who are incapacitated or no longer participating in hostilities must be treated humanely. Congressional Republicans are seeking clarification on the September double tap strike, amid reports that a verbal order was allegedly given to kill all survivors. Navy Admiral Frank Bradley reportedly briefed lawmakers in private, asserting he received detailed instructions in line with military protocol.

Some lawmakers remain unconvinced. Rep. Jim Himes criticized the attacks on shipwrecked individuals, emphasizing the distinction between legitimate targets and defenseless victims. Hegseth, a senior military official, has continued to endorse the strikes and even responded to social media praise by reporting the destruction of another suspected drug vessel.

The administration appears to be using these operations to produce propaganda while portraying a strong stance against terrorism. President Trump defended the strikes, claiming that each targeted boat saves thousands of American lives and framing the campaign as a necessary war effort.

Author: Olivia Parker