Mike Johnson Affirms Boat Strike on Survivors Was “Entirely Appropriate”
House Speaker Mike Johnson has defended the U.S. military’s actions during a controversial boat strike on September 2, asserting that the operations were justified and legally sound. Following a detailed briefing from Admiral Frank Bradley, who oversaw the mission, Johnson shared his thoughts with reporters.
Insights on the Boat Strike Incident
Johnson expressed satisfaction with the intelligence supporting the operation. He stated, “The strikes were conducted in accordance with the law and established protocol.” This incident has raised significant debate among lawmakers, particularly concerning the two survivors who were killed in a subsequent strike.
Survivors’ Condition and Reactions
There is contention regarding the condition of the survivors. Some lawmakers claim that these men were clinging to debris and waving for assistance. In contrast, Johnson and others argue that they were “able-bodied” and not injured, suggesting they were signaling other drug vessels to continue their operations. According to Johnson:
- The individuals on the vessel were not helpless castaways.
- They were drug runners attempting to recover narcotics from the capsized boat.
- The U.S. had reliable intelligence indicating another drug vessel was nearby.
Admiral Bradley’s decision to proceed with the follow-up strike came after consulting a military lawyer who confirmed the legality of the action. Johnson emphasized that this operation complied with legal standards, stating, “I’m fully confident that it was done the right way.”
Legal Concerns and Expert Opinions
Despite Johnson’s assurances, some Democrats and legal experts are concerned that targeting survivors of a maritime incident might be viewed as a war crime. They argue that the survivors’ actions could be interpreted as a plea for help. However, Republicans who viewed the footage maintain that the survivors posed a continuing threat and were legitimate targets.
In summary, the events surrounding the September 2 boat strike continue to spark controversy within Congress, highlighting divergent perspectives on military engagement and legal implications.
