Morning Joe New details on boat strike that killed survivors
Dec 8, 2025
Jonathan Lemire, a Staff writer at The Atlantic, shares insights on a controversial U.S. strike that killed survivors, sparking intense debates. Retired Lieutenant General Mark Hertling and former Homeland Security Secretary Jay Johnson discuss the legal ramifications, questioning if the action constitutes a war crime. They underscore the moral obligation to rescue rather than target survivors. The panel also emphasizes the need for transparency and congressional hearings to address the rules of engagement and the Pentagon's accountability.
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Veterans Demand Accountability And Legal Role
- Retired intelligence and military officers expressed deep unhappiness over the strike and its handling.
- They urged public hearings to clarify rules of war and restore legal counsel's role in operations.
Use Hearings To Reinforce Legal Oversight
- Conduct public hearings to lay out what happened and assign responsibility.
- Strengthen the role of military lawyers so legal advice guides lethal operations.
Timing Undercuts 'Fog Of War' Defense
- Hertling emphasized a re-strike after long delay is not typical combat practice absent continued enemy fire.
- He argued the scene of adrift survivors without radios undermines claims they remained a threat.
