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Defense Secretary Hegseth Under Fire for Controversial Military Operation

12/5/2025

Center

Hegseth Under Scrutiny

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faces scrutiny for his role in a U.S. military operation against a suspected drug boat in the Caribbean on September 2.
A second attack killed survivors after the initial strike, triggering bipartisan outrage.
Hegseth said he did not oversee the second strike, despite earlier calls for war-crime consequences.
The Pentagon has been contacted for clarification on Hegseth's comments and on the operation.

Right

Hegseth's Illegal Orders

The View hosts accused Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth of issuing illegal orders during operation against a Venezuelan boat, saying the directives endangered service members and could lead to war crimes charges.
Sunny Hostin said service members are not obligated to follow illegal orders and warned that both Hegseth and the executing soldiers could face consequences.
Senator Mark Kelly warned troops might realize illegality after acting, potentially leaving them vulnerable to prosecution.

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Hegseth Under Scrutiny

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faces scrutiny for his role in a U.S. military operation against a suspected drug boat in the Caribbean on September 2.
A second attack killed survivors after the initial strike, triggering bipartisan outrage.
Hegseth said he did not oversee the second strike, despite earlier calls for war-crime consequences.
The Pentagon has been contacted for clarification on Hegseth's comments and on the operation.

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