Defense Secretary Backs Admiral in Second Strike Order
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U.S. Defense Secretary Erik Hegseth has publicly supported the admiral who ordered a second missile strike on September 2. The military targeted a boat it alleges was smuggling drugs.
Secretary Hegseth stated he did not see survivors clinging to the wreckage before the follow-up attack. The administration maintains the vessel was a drug trafficking threat.
The second strike has raised questions about the rules of engagement. Hegseth's defense emphasizes the admiral's decision-making authority during the operation.