Geraldo Rivera on Alleged War Crime in Venezuela Drug Boat Strike

"Double Tap" Strike Controversy

• 🎯 The White House is defending strikes on alleged drug boats off the coast of Venezuela following reports of a "double tap" strike ordered by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.
• ⚠️ Reports suggest a second strike hit survivors clinging to a boat after the initial explosion, leading to accusations of a war crime.
• ⚖️ Lawmakers from both parties are calling for hearings on Capitol Hill regarding the incident.

Geraldo Rivera's Stance

• ⚓ Rivera has historically supported actions against high seas piracy, viewing those on the drug boats as such.
• 💔 However, he states there is "absolutely no honor or bravery" in attacking survivors who pose no risk, calling it borderline illegal.
• 🧐 He suggests Secretary Hegseth may be attempting to shift responsibility to Admiral Bradley, the commander of special forces.

Impact on Venezuela Negotiations

• 🇻🇪 Rivera believes this controversy will negatively impact ongoing, tense negotiations with Venezuela, shifting the equity more to the Venezuelan side.
• 🗣️ He notes that Venezuelan President Maduro has been rallying support in the streets, with chants of "Victory forever."

Tradition of the High Seas

• 🚢 Rivera, with his background in the merchant marine, emphasizes the importance of the tradition of rescuing people in the water, even enemies, under the rules of war.
• 📜 He argues that killing survivors of an explosion is an illegal order, or at least borderline, and warrants review.
• 🏛️ This incident also bolsters the position of Democratic lawmakers who have advised service members to refuse illegal orders.