1. United States
2. Pa.
3. Letter

I am writing to demand immediate accountability for the military operation near Venezuela that resulted in orders to fire upon survivors of an attack on an alleged drug boat. The classified briefing currently being provided by Admiral Frank "Mitch" Bradley, commander of U.S. Special Operations Command, to congressional leaders reveals the severity of this situation and the urgent need for action. The reported orders to fire upon survivors constitute a potential war crime under international humanitarian law. The operation occurred in international waters, raising serious questions about legal authority and adherence to the laws of armed conflict. Even in legitimate military operations, deliberately targeting survivors who pose no immediate threat violates fundamental principles of proportionality and distinction that govern lawful use of force. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's handling of this operation demonstrates a catastrophic failure of leadership and judgment. The congressional investigation examining his role has uncovered concerns that the strike violated legal boundaries. This is not a matter of policy disagreement but of potential criminal conduct that undermines the integrity of our armed forces and damages America's standing in the international community. I urge you to take three immediate actions. First, support a full public investigation into the circumstances surrounding the strike and the chain of command that authorized firing upon survivors. Second, call for the removal of Defense Secretary Hegseth from his position. His continued leadership poses a threat to military discipline and the rule of law. Third, ensure that any service members who followed unlawful orders receive appropriate legal protection while those who issued such orders face accountability. Our military's legitimacy depends on adherence to the laws of war. When leaders order actions that amount to extrajudicial killings, they betray the values our service members risk their lives to defend. I expect you to stand firmly for accountability and the rule of law in this matter.