Admiral viewed alleged drug boat strike survivors as acceptable targets, defense official claims

WASHINGTON According to a defense source speaking to NBC News, Adm. Frank M. Bradley regarded the two individuals who survived a September attack on a suspected drug-smuggling vessel as lawful military targets under the operations guidelines, potentially classifying them as narco-terrorists. Following this assessment, the military carried out a second strike on the same boat, sparking debate over the legality of the action and whether it could be considered a war crime.

The Wall Street Journal reported that Bradley determined the survivors of the initial September 2 strike were attempting to resume a drug operation, justifying their targeting. NBC News has reached out to the Pentagon for comment on what Bradley intends to communicate to lawmakers during his briefing on Thursday.

Both the House and Senate have opened investigations into the follow-up strike, which resulted in the deaths of the two survivors, according to officials.

Earlier this week, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth commented that he did not see any survivors after the first strike. The vessel was engulfed in flames, he stated during a Tuesday Cabinet meeting. It was consumed by fire and smoke. You could not see anyone.

Hegseth described the situation as the fog of war, noting that although he observed the initial strike live, he moved on to other engagements and only learned about the second strike afterward. He expressed support for Bradley, saying the admiral made the correct decision and emphasizing that we have his back.

Admiral Bradley, now leading the U.S. Special Operations Command, is scheduled to brief members of the House and Senate Armed Services and Intelligence committees regarding the September incidents. Adam Smith, ranking member of the House Armed Services Committee, confirmed he will attend the briefing and mentioned plans for a classified full committee session next week.

Author: Sophia Brooks