Senator Mark Kelly has raised serious concerns regarding a recent military strike on suspected drug boats in the Caribbean, suggesting it may constitute a war crime. The Democratic senator from Arizona, who previously served as a Navy pilot for over two decades, expressed his apprehensions during an appearance on CNN’s “State of the Union.” This comes in response to a Washington Post report detailing a double-tap strike carried out on September 2, 2025, allegedly ordered by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.
Kelly emphasized his worries about the implications of such an order, stating, “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 highlighted the importance of respecting military personnel, declaring that they should be revered and expressing hope that the reports regarding the strike are not accurate.
During his military service, Kelly noted that he had previously sunk two ships but never questioned the legality of those operations, as they were conducted during wartime. He asserted that going after survivors in the water after an initial strike “is clearly not lawful.” This stance reflects his commitment to ensuring that military actions adhere to established legal standards.
Hegseth has vehemently denied the allegations made in the Washington Post, dismissing the report as “fake news.” He defended current operations in the Caribbean, asserting their legality under both U.S. and international law. In a statement on social media, he claimed that all actions were in compliance with the law of armed conflict and approved by military and civilian lawyers throughout the chain of command.
Political Fallout and Criticism of Hegseth
The controversy surrounding the strike has intensified tensions between Kelly and the Trump administration, particularly in light of Kelly’s previous remarks advising military personnel to disregard unlawful orders. On CNN, he criticized Hegseth, labeling him as the “least qualified” individual to hold the position of Secretary of Defense. He stated, “I cannot think of a secretary of defense in the history of our country who is less qualified than Pete Hegseth. He should not be in this position.”
Kelly’s comments come on the heels of growing scrutiny regarding the conduct of military operations under the current administration. He contended that Hegseth’s actions warranted dismissal, suggesting he should have been terminated following a previous incident dubbed “Signalgate,” which had already raised questions about Hegseth’s fitness for office.
In light of these developments, the implications of the double-tap strike resonate beyond the immediate military context, potentially affecting U.S. foreign policy and military engagement in the region. The ongoing discussions about the legality of military actions highlight the critical need for accountability and adherence to international law, particularly in operations involving civilian safety.
As the situation unfolds, it remains essential for military operations to be conducted within the framework of legal and ethical standards, ensuring that the actions of those in command are transparent and justifiable. The outcome of this controversy may shape future military directives and the political landscape surrounding national defense.
