The White House has confirmed that a second strike on a suspected Venezuelan drug-smuggling boat — carried out on Sept. 2 — was ordered by Frank Bradley, a Navy admiral, although the broader operation was authorised by Pete Hegseth. The strike killed two survivors left in the water after an initial attack, prompting bipartisan outrage, calls for congressional investigation, and concerns that the follow-up may breach international humanitarian law. The administration insists the strike was lawful, conducted in international waters, and aimed at eliminating a narcotics threat. The incident has triggered a major political and legal storm, with lawmakers demanding accountability and transparency.