The United States military is known for its precision and strategic planning when it comes to carrying out operations. However, a recent incident has raised questions about the ethical and legal considerations taken before launching an attack. The Intercept has learned that before ordering a second strike on a boat, Adm. Frank Bradley sought legal advice from JSOC’s top lawyer, Col. Cara Hamaguchi. This revelation has shed light on the importance of following proper protocols and the consequences of not doing so.
The incident in question took place in the Gulf of Aden, where a US Navy warship came under attack from a small boat carrying seven people. The boat was believed to be a threat and was fired upon by the US Navy. However, after the initial attack, the boat was still afloat and the survivors were seen surrendering. Despite this, a second strike was ordered, which resulted in the death of all seven people on board. The reason for the second strike was that the survivors did not surrender in the correct manner, according to the US military.
This incident has raised many questions about the actions of the US military and the decision-making process that led to the second strike. It is reported that Adm. Frank Bradley consulted with Col. Cara Hamaguchi, the top lawyer for the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC), before ordering the second strike. This shows that the US military takes legal considerations seriously, even in the midst of a chaotic situation.
The decision to launch a second strike on the boat was based on the rules of engagement set by the US military. These rules state that if there is a perceived threat, the military has the right to use force. However, the rules also state that if the threat is no longer present, the use of force should be stopped. In this case, the boat was no longer a threat after the initial attack, as it was seen surrendering. This raises the question of whether the second strike was necessary or if it was a violation of the rules of engagement.
Col. Cara Hamaguchi, who was consulted by Adm. Frank Bradley, is known for her expertise in international law and her role in advising the US military on legal matters. Her involvement in this incident shows the importance of having legal experts in the decision-making process of the military. It also highlights the fact that the US military takes its legal obligations seriously, even in the midst of a chaotic situation.
The US military has a responsibility to protect its personnel and to act in accordance with international laws and regulations. However, this incident has raised concerns about the use of force and the consequences of not following proper protocols. The US military has a duty to ensure that its actions are in line with international laws and that innocent lives are not lost due to a lack of proper decision-making.
The families of the victims have raised their voices and demanded justice for their loved ones. They have questioned the actions of the US military and the decision to launch a second strike on a boat that was no longer a threat. This incident has also sparked a debate about the use of force and the need for stricter guidelines in such situations.
The US military has launched an investigation into the incident and has promised to take appropriate action if any wrongdoing is found. This shows that the US military takes accountability seriously and is willing to learn from its mistakes.
In conclusion, the incident in the Gulf of Aden has raised important questions about the actions of the US military and the decision-making process that led to the second strike. It has also highlighted the importance of following proper protocols and seeking legal advice in such situations. The involvement of Col. Cara Hamaguchi, the top lawyer for JSOC, shows the US military’s commitment to upholding international laws and regulations. It is hoped that this incident will lead to stricter guidelines and better decision-making in the future, to prevent the loss of innocent lives.
