Jack Reed Questions DoD Nominee on Legal Basis for Trump's Boat Strikes

Legal Basis for Lethal Operations

• 🎯 Senator Jack Reed questioned the nominee for Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, Alexander Velez-Green, regarding the statutory authority for lethal operations against designated terrorist organizations.
• ⚠️ Reed highlighted that these operations involve destroying ships from a distance, raising questions about the legal foundation.

Nominee's Response and Deference

• 🏛️ Velez-Green repeatedly deferred to the Office of General Counsel for specific legal basis and statutory authority related to ongoing operations.
• ⚖️ He stated that he is diligent in ensuring the Office of General Counsel is engaged to confirm that any options presented are lawful.
• ❓ When pressed on whether he could provide the statutory legal basis, Velez-Green reiterated his deference to the General Counsel's office.

Obligation to Examine Legality

• 🧐 Reed questioned Velez-Green's obligation to examine potential failures to follow laws, especially when serving in the policy department.
• ✅ Velez-Green stated he has no reason to believe the President or Secretary are directing unlawful actions.
• 🤝 He emphasized that the policy department's role includes ensuring relevant stakeholders, such as the Office of General Counsel, are involved to bring their expertise to bear.

Chairman's Suggestion

• 📝 The Chairman suggested that Mr. Velez-Green reflect on the question and respond on the record if he could provide further information.