Washington, 4 December (H.S.): US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is under intense congressional scrutiny following a controversial special operations strike on alleged drug boats off the Venezuelan coast. The attack, and a subsequent deadly follow-up strike on survivors, has sparked bipartisan calls for accountability and demands for the release of full operational footage.

Despite initial attempts to downplay criticism, including a widely condemned social media post joking about the strike, Hegseth now faces investigations by congressional Armed Services Committees. Senators including Chuck Schumer and Chris Van Hollen have labeled the second strike a potential war crime and pressed for his resignation, intensifying political pressure amid growing doubts over his leadership and decision-making.

Hegseth, who narrowly secured confirmation earlier this year and has championed a warrior culture in the Pentagon, defended the strike citing the fog of war. Still, bipartisan concerns mount over his conduct and adherence to rules of engagement.

While Trump administration loyalists support Hegseth, the unfolding investigation marks a critical juncture in his tenure amid mounting calls for transparency and accountability.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar