Hegseth, addressing the matter during a Cabinet meeting, defended the military leadership.
“This is called the fog of war,” Hegseth said, explaining that although he watched the first strike live, he later moved on to other meetings.
“Adm. Bradley made the correct decision,” he added, emphasizing, “We have his back.”
Admiral told lawmakers everyone on alleged drug boat was on a list of military targets
Legal Compliance and JAG Oversight
An administration official told reporters that Bradley made clear he operated “in complete compliance with the law” throughout the mission. According to the official, a uniformed Judge Advocate General (JAG) officer provided legal guidance at every step.
“The cumulative impact of these narcoterrorist shipments directly threaten Americans and the national security interests of the United States,” the official said in a written statement.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt echoed that position, stating that Pete Hegseth authorized Adm. Bradley to conduct these kinetic strikes and that the commander “worked well within his authority and the law.”
