Defense Secretary Denies 'Kill Everybody' Order, Cites 'Fake News'
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth vehemently denied reports he ordered the killing of everyone on an alleged 'narco-boat,' labeling the claims as 'fake news' designed to 'discredit our incredible warriors.' This statement, (according to The Guardian World ), conveniently sidesteps centuries of US military operations where 'rules of engagement' often blur into plausible deniability. From Central
America's 'contra' conflicts to drone strikes in Yemen, the consistent refrain from officials has been 'lawful' or 'necessary,' irrespective of civilian casualties or murky intelligence. Hegseth’s outrage echoes the familiar corporate media playbook: deny, deflect, and label uncomfortable truths as an attack on 'the troops.' Critics might wonder how many times 'lawful under both US and
international law' needs repeating before an action becomes inherently suspect, especially when independent inquiries are dismissed out of hand. One might call it a 'narco-boat,' but for someone giving lethal orders, it appears the only 'fake news' is any reporting that holds power accountable.