Himes Calls Hegseth’s Claims on Boat Strikes “Zero Credibility”

UPDATE: Rep. Jim Himes has just declared that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth possesses “zero credibility” regarding the Pentagon’s September 2 strikes on an alleged drug boat. This explosive claim follows a closed-door briefing where lawmakers were shown a controversial video of the strike, which has ignited fierce debate in Congress.

Himes’ remarks come in light of shifting explanations from the Pentagon that have raised serious questions about the legality and ethics of the military’s actions. During a segment on “Face the Nation,” Himes emphasized the critical need for the public to see the footage, stating, “the interpretation of the video… broke down precisely on party lines.”

The September 2 strike, part of a wider campaign against alleged drug trafficking along the South American coast, has already led to more than 20 strikes and over 80 deaths. Himes described what he witnessed in the briefing as “one of the most troubling things I’ve seen” in his public service career, highlighting the need for transparency in military operations.

The controversy intensified after a report from The Washington Post indicated that the second strike resulted in the deaths of two survivors from the initial attack. Himes stated, “There’s a certain amount of sympathy out there for going after drug runners, but it’s important that people see what it looks like when the full force of the United States military is turned on two guys clinging to a piece of wood.”

The lethal campaign has come under scrutiny as lawmakers point out that the strikes were conducted without explicit authorization from Congress. The Trump administration argues it has the legal authority to act against drug cartels, which it has designated as terrorist organizations, despite lacking evidence that the targeted vessels were affiliated with such groups.

In contrast, GOP Senator Tom Cotton defended the military’s actions, asserting on “Meet the Press” that survivors were “not incapacitated in any way” and that the decision to strike again was justified. He insisted that it was necessary to ensure the destruction of the boat’s cargo.

Himes countered Cotton’s assertions, stating, “If someone has been struck and continues to engage in hostilities — points a gun at you — they are a legitimate target. But if they are outside of combat, they are not.” He reiterated the urgency for public access to the video, saying, “these guys were barely alive, much less engaging in hostilities.”

The briefings were led by Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Admiral Frank “Mitch” Bradley, head of Special Operations Command. Himes expressed concern about the pressure on military leaders in such contexts, suggesting that “a good man in that context maybe does something that if he weren’t in that context, he might not do.”

Hegseth, speaking at the Reagan National Defense Forum, explained his rationale behind the reattack, stating there were concerns that survivors could still pose a threat. “I fully support that strike. I would have made the same call myself,” he asserted.

As the debate continues, the implications of these military actions raise significant ethical questions about the U.S. approach to combatting drug trafficking. Lawmakers are now calling for greater oversight and transparency regarding military operations conducted without congressional approval.

This developing story highlights a crucial moment in U.S. military policy and accountability. As more details emerge, the urgency for public scrutiny and discussion grows. Stay tuned for further updates as this situation unfolds.