CA, US & World
Lawmakers Clash Over Controversial September Drug Strike That Killed Survivors
Pressure is mounting for the Pentagon to release video footage of a September air strike near Venezuela that killed two survivors of an initial hit on an alleged drug boat—a "double-tap" strike that critics are calling a war crime.
The incident has sparked fierce debate on Capitol Hill, with Democrats demanding transparency and Republicans defending the operation as necessary in the fight against drug trafficking. "This video was profoundly shaken, shaking, and I think it's important for Americans to see it," said Rep. Jim Himes (D-CT).
New details have emerged about Admiral Frank Bradley, who ordered the strike. According to sources familiar with his closed-door congressional testimony, Bradley consulted with a military lawyer throughout the operation, and military aircraft spotted survivors waving their arms before the second strike.
The controversy comes as the Trump administration escalates its anti-drug campaign, deploying additional troops to Puerto Rico and suggesting future strikes could extend to land targets in Venezuela.
Watch the full report above for exclusive details about what Admiral Bradley told lawmakers, the administration's response, and why the Pentagon won't commit to releasing the footage despite President Trump saying it would be "no problem."
By: NBC Palm Springs
December 8, 2025


