“Pressure mounts for resignation of ex-Trump defense sec”

Calls for the resignation of Pete Hegseth, the defense secretary under Donald Trump, are increasing following an alleged illegal air strike on a suspected drug-smuggling boat in Venezuela. On September 2, a US missile struck the vessel, resulting in casualties and survivors who were later targeted with a second strike, breaching the Geneva Convention. Despite lacking evidence that the individuals were trafficking drugs, critics, including members of Hegseth’s own Republican party, are raising concerns about potential war crimes. Lawmakers are demanding accountability, with Admiral Frank Bradley expected to provide a briefing on the incident to congressional defense committees. Hegseth defended the actions citing the “fog of war,” amid growing controversy over the administration’s military tactics. Previous controversies involving Hegseth include protocol breaches and personal misconduct allegations, which he has denied.