Pentagon Denies Second Boat Strike on Survivors as a “Double-Tap”
The Pentagon has refuted claims regarding a second military strike on survivors of a boat attack on September 2. This response comes amid allegations that the second strike constituted a “double-tap” attack targeting those attempting to rescue individuals from the wreck. Col. Allie Weiskopf, spokesperson for Special Operations Command, clarified that Adm. Frank Bradley did not perceive his actions as a “double tap.”
Pentagon Responds to Double-Tap Allegations
The term “double tap” refers to follow-on strikes aimed at harming rescuers or first responders, although it lacks legal or doctrinal significance. These types of attacks have previously occurred in various conflicts, notably in the U.S. drone campaigns in Pakistan, Somalia, and Yemen. Israel has also executed similar strikes in the recent Gaza conflicts.
Details from Military Officials
- Secretary of War Pete Hegseth admitted during a Cabinet meeting that a follow-up strike occurred against the boat.
- Hegseth emphasized he did not witness survivors during the attack, citing obscured visuals from live footage due to smoke and fire.
- He expressed confidence in Adm. Bradley’s decision to authorize the second strike after reportedly leaving the room.
These statements reflect a shift in the Pentagon’s narrative regarding the killings. Critics argue that focusing on the terminology of “double-tap” fails to address the underlying moral concerns surrounding such military actions.
Legal and Ethical Implications
Prominent experts and governmental figures have voiced concerns about the legality of these military strikes. The military has executed 21 attacks in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific since September, leading to the destruction of 22 boats and resulting in the deaths of at least 83 civilians. Critics assert that these actions amount to extrajudicial killings. In the U.S. war on drugs, suspects have traditionally faced arrest rather than lethal strikes.
- Experts have stated that attacking incapacitated individuals is inhumane.
- The Pentagon’s Law of War Manual explicitly condemns this as dishonorable.
The multiple attacks on September 2 exacerbated the situation and raised questions about military conduct. Weiskopf noted that Adm. Bradley looks forward to briefing Congress regarding these matters.
Upcoming Congressional Briefing
Bradley is slated to meet with key members of both the House and Senate Armed Services Committees. This will provide an opportunity for further clarification on the military’s actions and the ongoing discussion about the implications of their strategies.
