In a developing story that has captivated the attention of both lawmakers and the public, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Senator Marco Rubio are set to brief members of Congress on the recent U.S. military strikes on foreign vessels suspected of trafficking narcotics in the eastern Pacific Ocean. The strikes, which resulted in the deaths of eight individuals, have sparked intense debate over the use of military force and the need for transparency in such operations.
According to The Guardian, the US military conducted three separate strikes on Monday night, targeting vessels believed to be involved in drug smuggling activities in international waters. The footage of the strikes was shared on social media by the US Southern Command, further fueling the controversy surrounding the operations.
The Washington Times reports that President Trump’s top Cabinet officials overseeing national security are expected to face tough questions on Capitol Hill regarding the escalation of military force and the decision-making process behind the deadly boat strikes near Venezuela. Calls for accountability and transparency have been mounting as lawmakers seek to understand the rationale behind the military actions.
One of the key points of contention revolves around the release of the full video of a previous strike conducted on a drug-smuggling boat in the Caribbean in September. CBS News highlights that Defense Secretary Hegseth has declined to release the full video, leading to criticism from Democrats who argue that the public has a right to know the details of such operations.
The Hill further elaborates on the ongoing battle between Hegseth and Democrats over the release of the controversial September 2 strike video, which resulted in the deaths of two boatwrecked survivors. The refusal to disclose the full video has raised concerns about accountability and potential violations of international law, with Democrats pushing for greater transparency from the Pentagon.
As the debate intensifies, the need for clarity and openness in military operations becomes increasingly apparent. The decision to withhold crucial information from the public has raised questions about the ethical implications of such actions and the importance of upholding transparency in national security matters.
In conclusion, the briefing by Hegseth and Rubio to Congress represents a critical moment in the ongoing discussion surrounding the boat strikes and the broader implications for US military operations. As calls for transparency grow louder, the need for accountability and ethical considerations in the use of force remains paramount.
Political Bias Index: Neutral
References:
1. The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/live/2025/dec/16/trump-hegseth-rubio-politics-live-updates
2. The Washington Times: https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2025/dec/16/pete-hegseth-marco-rubio-expected-back-capitol-hill-questions-mount/
3. CBS News: https://www.cbsnews.com/video/hegseth-says-full-video-of-sept-2-boat-strike-will-not-be-released-to-public/
4. The Hill: https://thehill.com/policy/defense/5651908-democrats-hegseth-strike-video-release
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