Senator Mark Kelly has raised significant concerns regarding a strike on suspected drug boats in the Caribbean, suggesting it may constitute a war crime. The incident, which reportedly took place on September 2, 2025, involved a controversial “double-tap” strike allegedly ordered by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, as detailed in a report by The Washington Post.
During an appearance on CNN’s “State of the Union,” Kelly, a former Navy pilot with over two decades of service, articulated his unease about the implications of the strike. He stated, “If what has been reported is accurate, I’ve got serious concerns about anybody in that chain of command stepping over a line that they should never step over.” He emphasized the respect he has for the military, stating, “They should be revered, and that’s why I hope what I’ve heard about this strike is not accurate.”
The controversy surrounding this operation has escalated following Kelly’s past criticisms of the Trump administration. He had previously released a video encouraging military personnel to disregard unlawful orders, a move that positioned him at odds with the former president’s policies. Reflecting on the reported strike order to target survivors of the initial attack, Kelly asserted, “I have sunk two ships. I never, in that situation, questioned whether those strikes were legal. Going after survivors in the water, that is clearly not lawful.”
In response to the allegations, Hegseth dismissed the report from The Washington Post as “fake news,” arguing on social media that it aimed to “discredit our incredible warriors fighting to protect the homeland.” He defended the operations in the Caribbean, asserting that they comply with both U.S. and international law. Hegseth stated, “All actions [are] in compliance with the law of armed conflict—and approved by the best military and civilian lawyers, up and down the chain of command.”
Kelly did not hold back in his criticism of Hegseth’s qualifications for his position. He described Hegseth as the “least qualified” individual to ever hold the role of Secretary of Defense, claiming, “I cannot think of a secretary of defense in the history of our country who is less qualified than Pete Hegseth. He should have been fired after Signalgate. Now, he should be fired for this.”
The senator’s comments have sparked further debate about military engagement protocols and accountability within the chain of command. As the situation continues to unfold, it highlights the growing scrutiny of military actions and the legal ramifications they may carry.
Kelly’s remarks resonate within a broader context of military ethics and the importance of maintaining lawful conduct during operations. As discussions progress, the implications of such strikes on international law and military protocol remain a critical focus for lawmakers and military officials alike.
