A growing number of U.S. Republican lawmakers are demanding clear explanations about American military strikes on vessels off Venezuela’s coast, aligning with Democrats in calling for a thorough investigation into whether multiple unauthorized attacks occurred earlier this year.
Despite broad Republican support for nearly all of President Donald Trump’s second-term policies, the strikes have become the second major foreign policy issue in just one week to trigger bipartisan concern.
White House Defends Legality as Lawmakers Seek Answers
White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt on Monday defended the strikes as lawful and confirmed they were authorized by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Her remarks followed reports that a second strike in early September may have deliberately targeted survivors aboard a fishing vessel — a move several lawmakers argue could constitute an illegal military act.
The controversy escalated after The Washington Post reported that Hegseth allegedly issued “a spoken directive” on Sept. 3 instructing forces to kill everyone aboard one of the boats.
Hegseth strongly denied the allegation, calling the claims fabricated and inflammatory. Trump said he trusted Hegseth “100%” but promised to review the situation.
For background on the Pentagon’s operational authorities, see the U.S. Department of Defense: Department of Defense.
Bipartisan Oversight Efforts Underway
Two Republican-led congressional committees overseeing the Pentagon announced they will examine the reports. Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Roger Wicker and ranking Democrat Jack Reed issued a joint statement promising “vigorous oversight.”
The House Armed Services Committee — led by Republican Chairman Mike Rogers and Democrat Adam Smith — also began bipartisan efforts to gather detailed information.
Leavitt said Hegseth had already communicated with several lawmakers “who might have been concerned” over the weekend.
Could the Second Strike Be Illegal?
Some GOP members echoed Democrats’ warnings that, if confirmed, a second strike targeting survivors could violate international law.
Rep. Mike Turner, former chair of the House Intelligence Committee, said on CBS’ Face the Nation that such an order would be “very serious” and “an illegal act.”
Sen. Rand Paul argued that ordering lethal force against shipwrecked or surrendering individuals violates “the laws and customs of honorable warfare.” Paul previously partnered with Democrats on legislation seeking to limit Trump’s military authority in Venezuela — though it was blocked by Republicans.
Congressional critics have questioned the broader strategy of destroying suspected drug-smuggling boats rather than detaining crews for questioning.
Escalating Confrontation with Venezuela
Since September, U.S. forces have carried out at least 21 strikes on suspected drug-transport vessels in the Caribbean and Pacific, killing no fewer than 83 people, as Trump intensifies pressure on President Nicolás Maduro’s government.
Senate Republicans recently blocked resolutions that would have restricted Trump from launching attacks inside Venezuelan territory without congressional approval. Only two GOP members joined Democrats in supporting the measure.
Trump has repeatedly argued that Venezuela’s airspace and surrounding waters pose national security risks. For ongoing regional updates, visit the Organization of American States: OAS Official Website.
