Democratic leaders from the U.S. congressional and intelligence committees, identified as members of the “Gang of Eight,” have urged Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth to publicly release the complete video footage of the September 2 strikes on a vessel suspected of drug trafficking in the Caribbean. In a statement, the group expressed serious concerns regarding the circumstances surrounding the strikes, emphasizing the need for transparency to both Congress and the American public.
The statement was issued by prominent Democratic figures including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, alongside Senator Mark Warner and Representative Jim Himes, both of whom hold significant positions in the intelligence committees. Their call for transparency comes amidst classified briefings led by President Donald Trump’s national security advisers, aimed at informing both Democrats and Republicans about ongoing operations against alleged Venezuelan drug traffickers.
While many Republicans have shown strong support for the military action, Democrats have voiced their dissatisfaction regarding the quantity and clarity of information provided, questioning the legality of the campaign. The Pentagon has yet to respond to requests for comment on the matter, and Hegseth has stated he has not made a decision on the potential release of the full video.
The situation highlights the ongoing tension in Congress regarding national security measures and calls for accountability, reflecting a broader debate about military transparency and the government’s approach to drug trafficking amid rising international concerns. As discussions continue, stakeholders in both parties remain eager to determine the implications of the operation and the necessary steps for transparency moving forward.