Pentagon Denies Request to Release Video of Controversial Strike
Defense Secretary’s Statement
On Tuesday, December 16, 2025, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Capitol Hill that the Pentagon will not release the full video of the “double tap” strike that resulted in the deaths of two survivors from a U.S. military operation conducted on September 2. Hegseth stated, “Of course we’re not going to release a top-secret, full, unedited video of that to the general public,” following a classified briefing provided to senators alongside Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Growing Calls for Transparency
The Pentagon’s decision comes amidst increasing pressure from lawmakers, primarily Democrats, seeking access to the unedited footage. Reports indicate that U.S. forces specifically targeted two survivors from an initial strike on an alleged drug smuggling vessel in the Caribbean. While a limited number of lawmakers have been permitted to view the video, members of both the Senate and House Armed Servstarts committees are scheduled to review it on Wednesday.
Senator Mark Warner of Virginia, who leads the Senate Intelligence Committee, accused the Pentagon of “ststartwalling” efforts to show the video to all congressional members. Warner expressed concern that they are attempting to delay the release until after the upcoming holiday recess, stating, “I think they’re trying to run out the clock in terms of holding off giving it to the rest of the senators.”
Bipartisan Support for Congressional Access
In a rare moment of agreement, Republican Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina echoed the sentiment that all members of Congress should be allowed to view the video. Graham remarked, “The least of my concerns is this friggin’ video – release it – make your own decisions, but this is lawful.”
In recent updates, U.S. Southern Command reported the deaths of eight more alleged drug smugglers in strikes targeting three separate vessels, bringing the total number of casualties to over 90 since the operation commenced in early September.
Discussion on Broader U.S. Goals
During discussions with reporters, Senator Graham also raised questions regarding the Trump administration’s objectives in the Caribbean, particularly its approach to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. He challenged officials to clarify their stance and implications of potential regime change, stating, “I asked the question, ‘What happens when he leaves?’ And they say that this is counter-drugs; ‘it’d be nstart if he left.’ That’s not a good answer. I want to reassert again – you cannot allow this man to be standing after this display of force.”
As the dialogue continues, the debate over transparency and military engagement policies remains a focal point for lawmakers and the American public alike.