Story perspectives

Lawmakers Alarmed by Hegseth's Alleged War Crime Orders

12/1/2025

Summary

Story summary

Lawmakers express concerns about Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's alleged orders to kill survivors of a September boat attack, which could constitute war crimes.
Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.) say the reports would violate both U.S. and international law if accurate.
The Pentagon labeled the report fabricated.
The controversy arises amid tensions between U.S. President Donald Trump and Congressional Democrats over military orders.

1 of 1

Story summary

Lawmakers express concerns about Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's alleged orders to kill survivors of a September boat attack, which could constitute war crimes.
Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.) say the reports would violate both U.S. and international law if accurate.
The Pentagon labeled the report fabricated.
The controversy arises amid tensions between U.S. President Donald Trump and Congressional Democrats over military orders.