Pentagon aware of survivors from boat attack but still carried out follow-up strike, say AP sources

WASHINGTON According to two sources familiar with the events, the Pentagon was aware that there were survivors following a September strike on a suspected drug vessel in the Caribbean Sea, yet a subsequent U.S. military operation was still conducted.

The sources, who requested anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly, explained that the second strike was justified as necessary to ensure the sinking of the vessel.

The Trump administration maintains that all 11 individuals on board were killed. Uncertainty remains regarding who authorized the strikes and whether Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth played a role. These details are expected to be addressed during a classified congressional briefing on Thursday with Adm. Frank Mitch Bradley, whom the Trump administration identifies as the commander responsible for the follow-up strike.

Hegseth has defended the additional strike as a decision made in the fog of war, noting that he did not observe any survivors and did not remain on site for the completion of the mission.

The military actions against alleged drug traffickers in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific have led to increased scrutiny of Hegseth. Legal analysts and some members of Congress argue that conducting a strike that killed survivors could constitute a violation of the laws of armed conflict.

Analysis: U.S. Military Strike in the Caribbean Raises Legal and Ethical Questions

The Pentagon's decision to carry out a second strike on a suspected drug vessel in the Caribbean, despite knowing there were survivors, has sparked controversy. According to anonymous sources familiar with the situation, military officials justified the follow-up attack as necessary to ensure the vessel's destruction. However, questions remain about the role of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in authorizing these strikes and the broader implications of such actions in the context of international law.

The Trump administration maintains that all 11 individuals aboard the vessel were killed in the attack, but the uncertainty surrounding the survivors’ fate continues to raise concerns. Critics, including legal experts and members of Congress, suggest that the attack on survivors may have violated the laws of armed conflict, which prohibit attacks on individuals who no longer pose an active threat. The upcoming classified briefing with Adm. Frank "Mitch" Bradley, identified as the commander responsible for the follow-up strike, could provide clarity on the decision-making process behind this controversial operation.

Hegseth, defending the military's actions, described the decision as being made in the "fog of war" — a reference to the chaotic and uncertain conditions of combat. However, this justification may not hold up under further scrutiny, especially as the military continues to face increased pressure to explain its operational choices. As investigations and discussions unfold, it remains to be seen whether legal challenges will be brought against those responsible for these actions in the Caribbean.

Sources:

• Pentagon knew boat attack left survivors but still launched a follow-on strike, AP sources say