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The official response clarified that the second scenario was accurate—that the strike did occur and was authorized by the appropriate military authority. A formal statement was provided, emphasizing that President Trump and Secretary Hegath both made it clear that designated narco-terrorist groups are valid targets under the laws of war.
Specifically, Secretary Hegath authorized Admiral Bradley to conduct the kinetic strikes on September 2nd. The statement confirmed that Admiral Bradley acted within his authority and in accordance with legal standards, aiming to destroy the vessel and eliminate the threat it posed to the United States.