Defense Secretary's Cartoon Parody Draws Criticism from Publisher

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is facing criticism for his response to a military operation. The controversy involves an airstrike on a boat suspected of smuggling drugs. Secretary Hegseth shared an altered image on social media. It depicted "Franklin," a beloved children's book character, as a turtle firing a machine gun at boats. The post was intended to explain the military action. The publisher of the "Franklin" book series has condemned the use of its character. Kids Can Press stated the image contradicts the values of friendship and kindness the stories promote. The company said it did not approve the image and finds it unacceptable. The post has increased scrutiny of the attack itself. Officials are investigating the incident, which occurred in the Pacific Ocean. The operation targeted a low-profile vessel, known as a "narco-submarine," suspected of transporting cocaine.