Survivors Attempt to Reboard Vessel Before Secondary Assault, Reports Suggest

CBS News has learned that survivors of a U.S. military operation targeting a supposed drug-trafficking boat tried to re-enter their vessel before being struck again, according to an insider familiar with the case.

The individuals purportedly attempted to recover drugs from the water while maintaining contact with others in the vicinity. According to the source, additional boats were nearby and could have offered them assistance.

ABC News further elaborated on the details of the operation, which were later shared by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth via a repost of their coverage.

The mission, which took place on September 2 and marked the beginning of over twenty such actions by the Trump administration against suspected narcotic smuggling vessels, has faced increasing scrutiny, particularly after The Washington Post alleged dual strikes on the same target. The Post claimed the follow-up was ordered to ensure no survivors remained.

This week, the White House acknowledged the existence of a second strike but refuted claims that Hegseth issued the directive. Hegseth attributed the decision to Adm. Mitch Bradley, the mission's leader, and defended the strike as both lawful and necessary.

Concerns have surfaced among Democrats and certain legal analysts about the legality of the second assault, which they argue could violate war laws as wounded or shipwrecked combatants should not be targeted.

Lawmakers across party lines have pledged to investigate the incident thoroughly. Bradley is set to appear before Congress on Thursday, alongside Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who will be present for the testimony.