Hegseth caught in strike scandal; Minneapolis prepares for ICE raids

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is under increased scrutiny, following the controversial boat strike incident and a scandal known as "Signalgate." On Thursday, attention shifts to Admiral Mitch Bradley, who is set to testify in Congress regarding his role in authorizing a second strike during the military operation. At the same time, federal immigration raids are intensifying in Minneapolis, instilling fear in the Somali community and triggering significant backlash as the administration escalates its enforcement actions. Additionally, a raccoon who got intoxicated on fermented fruit has gone viral, turning a mishap into an internet sensation.

Hegseth Under Fire Over Boat Strike and Signal Messages

On Wednesday, President Donald Trump expressed his willingness to release any footage from the U.S. military's strike on a suspected drug boat in the Caribbean. The strike, which initially left two survivors, has sparked criticism due to the actions of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Critics argue that Hegseth ordered the elimination of all crew members, setting the stage for the subsequent operation. When two men survived the initial hit, Admiral Mitch Bradley, the commander on the scene, reportedly ordered a second strike, allegedly in line with Hegseth's directive.

New reports indicate that the survivors were seen attempting to climb back onto the boat in an effort to salvage drugs and communicate with other vessels that could have rescued them. U.S. officials have labeled these survivors as "valid targets." Some critics have gone as far as calling the second strike a war crime. Multiple investigations are underway in Congress, and when asked about accountability for Hegseth or Bradley, President Trump commented, stating that the military actions were justified.

Trump also emphasized that he stands by the decision to target the boats and their crew members, including those involved in the subsequent strike. "I support the decision to eliminate the boats and their operators," Trump said, defending the military's actions. Bradley is scheduled to testify before Congress, where he will present a video of the second strike. Hegseth has defended Bradley, asserting that the admiral made the right decision and that the administration stands by him.

Signal Leak Scandal: Hegseth Faces Allegations

In another development, the Pentagon's inspector general has concluded an investigation into Hegseth's use of the Signal messaging app to share classified information. The app, while encrypted, is not authorized for handling such sensitive material. The inspector general's report indicates that Hegseth disclosed secret details about a military operation in Yemen in a group chat, potentially putting U.S. troops at risk if intercepted. Furthermore, Hegseth violated regulations by conducting official business on his personal phone.

Hegseth has denied sharing classified information via Signal, but the findings of the investigation have fueled controversy, with the so-called "Signalgate" scandal continuing to gain attention.

Federal Raids in Minneapolis and Backlash Against Somali Immigrants

Meanwhile, immigration raids have intensified in Minneapolis, targeting immigrants with criminal records. The raids have generated anxiety within the Somali community, especially following President Trump's critical remarks about Somali immigrants. The president recently labeled Somali immigrants as "destructive" to the country and reiterated his attacks on Representative Ilhan Omar, a Somali-American congresswoman.

The Somali community in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, the largest of its kind in the U.S., is bracing for the effects of the raid, which is expected to result in thousands of arrests. Local activists are attempting to reassure their neighbors, asserting that immigrants have rights under the U.S. Constitution and that there is no reason to live in fear. One Somali community member, Mohamed, a driver for Uber and Lyft, urged his fellow residents not to be intimidated.

In a related incident, Trump further criticized Somali immigrants, accusing them of undermining the country. "They've destroyed our country, and all they do is complain," Trump said, referring to the Somali community and Omar. "They should go back to their own country," he added, continuing his verbal attacks. Omar responded, stating that she would not be intimidated and that the Somali community is here to stay, asserting her pride in being a U.S. citizen.

Additional Stories

In a separate news story, federal prosecutors have filed new charges against New York Attorney General Letitia James following the dismissal of a previous case. The new indictment is part of an ongoing investigation into allegations surrounding James and former FBI Director James Comey. Legal experts expect further developments in the coming days.

Elsewhere, a judge has sentenced Dr. Salvador Plasencia, a California doctor, to 30 months in prison for illegally distributing ketamine to actor Matthew Perry prior to his death. The powerful anesthetic contributed to Perry's fatal overdose. The doctor was found guilty of selling the drug to Perry, who struggled with addiction. The judge stated that Plasencia had "fed" Perry's addiction for personal gain.

In a lighter story, a raccoon that broke into a Virginia liquor store has gone viral after it drunkenly consumed various alcoholic beverages, including moonshine and peanut butter whiskey. The raccoon passed out on the bathroom floor and was later taken to an animal shelter to sleep off its intoxication. The incident, which gained widespread attention, has become a humorous moment on the internet.

Author: Lucas Grant