A startling allegation of war crimes has emerged, targeting a key figure in Trump’s administration, stirring deep concern among conservatives.
Quick Take
- Andrew Napolitano accuses Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth of war crimes on Newsmax.
- The allegations focus on an order to kill survivors of a drug smuggling operation.
- Napolitano’s critique highlights potential violations of international law and the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
- Congress may launch an investigation into the incident.
Allegations Against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth
On December 2, 2025, Newsmax’s senior judicial analyst Andrew Napolitano dropped a bombshell, asserting that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth should be prosecuted for war crimes. Napolitano’s allegations stem from a controversial order to kill survivors of an alleged drug smuggling operation that took place in September 2025. The legal analyst argued these actions violated both international law of armed conflict and the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
The incident at the heart of these allegations occurred on September 2, 2025, when the Trump administration authorized an aerial bombardment of a suspected drug smuggling boat in the Caribbean. Hegseth, appearing on Fox & Friends the following day, claimed to have watched the strike live, stating that “11 drug traffickers are no longer with us.” However, subsequent reports revealed that survivors of the initial strike were deliberately killed, raising serious ethical and legal concerns.
Legal and Ethical Implications
The legal foundation of Napolitano’s argument is rooted in the explicit requirement under both international law and the Uniform Code of Military Justice that survivors of such operations should be rescued, not killed. This framework is central to the war crime allegations against Hegseth. The situation is further complicated by the fact that Hegseth has attempted to shift responsibility to Admiral Frank M. Bradley, while continuing to express support for him.
Napolitano’s critique from within conservative circles is particularly significant, given his prior professional relationship with Hegseth at Fox News. His assertion that “this is an act of a war crime” underscores the gravity of the allegations and the potential for congressional scrutiny. Reports indicate that both houses of Congress are considering launching investigations into the matter, reflecting the bipartisan concern it has generated.
Potential Consequences and Future Implications
The short-term implications of these allegations are profound. The Defense Department faces potential congressional scrutiny, and Hegseth’s position as Defense Secretary may come under increased pressure. If prosecutions proceed, this case could set a significant legal precedent regarding executive authority in military operations, potentially affecting future U.S. military engagements.
In the long term, the incident could constrain the administration’s approach to combating drug trafficking, requiring clearer legal justification for military actions. It also poses questions about the U.S.’s adherence to international humanitarian law, with potential ramifications for America’s standing on the global stage.
Sources:
Trump War Sec Hegseth Bragged on Fox Hours After No Survivors Boat Strike: ‘I Watched It Live’