How the White House account of September boat strike has evolved
BBC News1 day
Four Killed in Latest US Military Strike on Suspected Drug Vessel
Are these strikes extrajudicial killings violating international law or lawful operations against narco-terrorists?
Above: Navy Admiral Frank Bradley arrives for a briefing with lawmakers on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., on Dec. 4, 2025. Image credit: Alex Kent/Bloomberg/Getty Images
The Spin
Anti-Trump narrative
Hegseth's boat strike campaign amounts to extrajudicial murder, with the Pentagon admitting it doesn't know who it's killing while refusing to provide evidence to Congress. The double-tap strike killing shipwrecked survivors clinging to wreckage violates international law, and further violations must be stopped.
Pro-Trump narrative
Operation Southern Spear represents lawful military action against designated terrorist organizations trafficking narcotics. Admiral Bradley confirmed no illegal kill order was given, and military lawyers approved every operation under the Law of Armed Conflict. These strikes disrupt cartel networks threatening American lives after decades of inaction.
Metaculus Prediction
Public Figures
Establishment split
CRITICAL
PRO
© 2025 Improve the News Foundation. All rights reserved.Version 6.18.0
© 2025 Improve the News Foundation.
All rights reserved.
Version 6.18.0