The United States military has successfully disrupted a suspected drug-smuggling operation in the eastern Pacific Ocean through a series of targeted strikes on four boats. The operation resulted in the deaths of 14 individuals, with one survivor being handed over to Mexican authorities for rescue coordination.
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced the details of the operation, highlighting that the vessels were identified as operating on known drug trafficking routes and carrying illicit narcotics. These strikes are a direct consequence of President Donald Trump’s directive to intensify efforts against transnational drug networks. Hegseth specified that the 14 individuals killed were identified as “narco-terrorists,” and confirmed that all military actions took place in international waters, with no U.S. personnel sustaining injuries.
Following the successful strikes, U.S. Southern Command promptly enacted search and rescue protocols for the single survivor. Mexico’s Search and Rescue units have now assumed responsibility for the survivor’s case, signifying a collaborative approach to maritime safety and law enforcement. This event represents the latest in a series of impactful U.S. military interventions against drug smugglers.
These operations, commencing early September, have seen 13 distinct missions targeting drug-smuggling vessels. To date, 14 vessels have been destroyed, and 57 individuals have been killed, with three survivors rescued. The campaign’s operational area has expanded from the Caribbean to encompass the eastern Pacific. Survivors from previous Caribbean strikes were previously detained by the U.S. Navy and repatriated.
There are indications that the U.S. administration has obtained legal backing, through a classified opinion, to employ lethal force against drug traffickers by labeling them as enemy combatants. This legal stance potentially bypasses the need for judicial review before initiating such strikes. Mexico’s President has confirmed awareness of the strikes, emphasizing their occurrence in international waters and initiating diplomatic channels for further information exchange.