Double Tap Strike
U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth is under scrutiny after a military operation he authorized conducted a second strike on a boat in the Caribbean carrying alleged drug traffickers. An initial strike is believed to have killed nine and left two survivors, both of whom are believed to have been killed by the “double tap” strike. According to the White House, the strikes are a part of larger effort to eradicate drug traffickers in the region responsible for transporting narcotics into the U.S. More than 80 alleged traffickers have been killed during the operation, according to reports.
Secretary Hegseth is now facing allegations of a possible war crime for the second strike, but the White House and the Secretary contend both strikes are part of a legally permissible lethal operation to defend the nation against drug trafficking.
Analysis and eternal perspective: This is yet another story where seemingly incompatible narratives collide. On the one hand, it is a largely undisputed fact that drug trafficking into the U.S. is an existential threat to American citizens, and it is a natural response to work to eradicate that threat. On the other hand, it is of paramount importance to guide and wield the heft of the American military in a way that points toward flourishing. Complying with established rules of war plays an important part of that mission. This is clearly a both/and mission and it will be crucial for U.S. leaders to be devoted to that cause over devotion to a political narrative.
Illicit drugs are destroying the lives of millions of precious Image bearers. Elected officials—in the U.S. and abroad—have a clear duty to defend against this ill. Each of us has a role to play in this effort, especially in our own neighborhoods and communities. We should be personally vigilant and relationally protective of those within our sphere of influence. There are scores of biblical encouragements in this vein, but perhaps the most poignant is Ecclesiastes 4:9-12: "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken."
Two are better than one. Who are you supporting? Who are you able to lean on? Independence is held up as a virtue, but as Jesus followers we are clearly instructed to be accountable to each other.
The preceding article originally appeared in Thann’s “The Equipped” Weekly Newsletter. For more information on Thann’s weekly email, click here.