The two had no visible radio or other communication equipment, where they were trying to stay afloat, CNN reports , citing three sources who participated in a congressional hearing on the incident.
The fact that the two were trying to get support has previously been given as a reason for the criticized deadly second attack on the “drug boat.” However, during the interrogation, the operationally responsible Admiral Frank Bradley admitted that the two suspects were not in a condition to call for help.
The US attacked the boat in the Caribbean Sea in September, allegedly carrying cocaine. According to media reports, it first fired on it, killing nine people and splitting the vessel. It later fired again at the two survivors.
The procedure has been met with sharp criticism from lawyers and former military personnel, who believe it constitutes a violation of international law and possibly even a war crime. This is because the two were considered to be in a helpless state.
The attack took place as part of the US's counter-narcotics operation in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific. In total, more than 85 people were killed. The double attack has led to questions being raised about Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.
