CA, US & World
Military Strike That Killed Shipwrecked Survivors Sparks Legal and Political Outrage
New details are emerging about a controversial U.S. military strike in the Caribbean that killed two survivors clinging to their capsized boat. According to a Pentagon briefing presented to lawmakers Thursday, the survivors did not appear to have any communications equipment when the order was given to strike again.
The mission occurred on September 2 as part of a broader military campaign targeting suspected drug-smuggling vessels. The first strike split the boat in half, killing nine people believed to be involved in trafficking cocaine. Video shown to lawmakers reportedly captured two remaining survivors clinging to the overturned hull.
Adm. Frank “Mitch” Bradley, who directed the attack as leader of Joint Special Operations Command, told members of Congress that the second strike was ordered to destroy any remaining narcotics on board. Officials argued the survivors could still potentially reach safety and continue trafficking drugs. One individual familiar with the briefing called that justification unreasonable.
Legal experts note that international law prohibits killing shipwrecked individuals who are no longer a threat and are in need of aid. Members of both political parties have raised concerns, and the Senate Armed Services Committee has pledged oversight of the mission.
The rationale behind the decision has shifted in recent weeks. Defense officials had previously suggested the survivors were attempting to radio for help — a claim now walked back during Thursday’s briefing. Differences have also emerged over who gave final authorization for lethal force.
While some Republican leaders defended the campaign, others called the incident troubling. Lawmakers say they still have unanswered questions about the rules guiding the more than 20 maritime strikes carried out since September, which have resulted in at least 87 deaths.
The Pentagon has not commented on the latest reporting but continues to argue that operations are focused on disrupting dangerous narco-terrorist networks.
Credit: CNN Newsource
Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.
By: CNN Newsource
December 4, 2025
Latest Instagram Posts
Who makes the NBC Top 3, winner will be announced Sunday night on NBC Palm Springs, with the player who makes the number one spot winning a $250 prize from @hondaofthedesert! Comment below if it will be 1) Aiden Pope with the punt return TD, 2) Mason Flores with the dime on the run, 3) Colton LaCrone with the sack, 4) Kingston Pellum with the contested snag, or 5) Anthony Aguirre with the sack #hondaofthedesert #fnl #fridaynightlights #fyp #highschoolfootball
The midterms inch closer and the prices get higher
The hiring of interim City Manager Jim Vanderpool is drawing criticism online over allegations of previous homophobic remarks and harassment. Vanderpool is pushing back, saying the complaint at the center of the controversy was misinterpreted. Be sure to visit nbcpalmsprings.com for the full report #palmsprings #lgbtqcommunity #coachellavalley #localnews #760
🦷🇺🇸 George Washington’s teeth had a story of their own… and trust us, it’s WILD. 😂👀 Forget the cherry tree—this is the history lesson nobody saw coming! 🍒🤯 Would YOU want to know the truth? 👇😂 🎭 Catch the laughs with Mann on the Aisle! #MannOnTheAisle #GeorgeWashington #WeirdHistory #HistoryFacts #comedytheatre
As Palm Springs Pride organizers prepare for the annual celebration, one local organization is questioning the reasons why they won’t be allowed to participate. Our @newsbyalondra has the full story in the 5,6 and 11 p.m newscast.
The Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce is holding three city council candidate forums ahead of the November Election. Be sure to visit nbcpalmsprings.com to hear from the President of the Chamber of Commerce who breaks down what residents should know about what they can expect from these forums. #coachellavalley #elections2026 #localnews #citycouncil #candidateforum
Small mistake or a matter of transparency? What’s your take? Drop a comment below 👇 #therogginreport #coachellavalley #desertrecreationdistrict #localnews #nbcpalmsprings
Engineering students craft a robot that takes down a 4x4 Rubik's Cube in less than 10-seconds.
Watch a gargantuan, 5.7-mile-long train nab a world record as it disappears over the horizon!
☕️ Social Time with Thalia & Jerry. Do you do yoga?