US Defense Secretary Defends Strikes on Alleged Cartel Boats
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US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has publicly defended recent military strikes against suspected drug cartel vessels. His statement comes as the operations face growing legal and political scrutiny.
Critics argue the strikes may have broken international law. Hegseth dismissed these concerns during a press briefing on Wednesday.
"The President can and will take decisive military action as he sees fit to defend our nation's interests," Hegseth said, quoting President Trump. The Defense Secretary stated the actions were necessary to protect national security.
The strikes targeted boats allegedly used by cartels to transport drugs. The Pentagon has not yet provided further operational details or evidence of the vessels' activities.