Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth walks to the auditorium to brief members of congress on military strikes near Venezuela at the Capitol, Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)
The Secretary of Defense, Mark Esper, announced he will not provide Congress with a full video of a controversial boat strike that occurred on September 2, 2023. This decision follows calls from members of both the House of Representatives and the Senate who sought to review the footage of the incident.
The “double-tap” attack, which has drawn significant scrutiny, involves two strikes targeting the same location in rapid succession. This tactic has faced criticism for potentially resulting in unnecessary civilian casualties. Lawmakers are particularly interested in understanding the details surrounding this operation, which was carried out by U.S. forces in a conflict zone.
During a recent briefing, Esper explained that releasing the video could compromise operational security. He stated that the Pentagon must consider the implications of making such sensitive information public, indicating a commitment to safeguarding military strategies and personnel involved in the operation.
Despite the refusal to share the full video, Esper underscored the importance of transparency and accountability within the military. He assured Congress that they would receive a comprehensive report detailing the incident and the decision-making process that led to the attack. This report is expected to outline the rationale behind the military’s actions while adhering to national security protocols.
The refusal has sparked debate among lawmakers, some of whom have expressed frustration with the lack of access to crucial information. They argue that understanding the circumstances of the strike is vital for informed oversight and ensuring that military operations align with U.S. values and legal standards.
As the matter unfolds, it remains to be seen how this decision will impact the relationship between the Pentagon and Congress. With ongoing discussions about military engagement and accountability, the call for transparency in defense operations is likely to intensify in the coming weeks.
