The US military has carried out deadly strikes on three vessels in international waters of the eastern Pacific, targeting boats it says were involved in drug trafficking operations. US Southern Command confirmed that the attacks resulted in the deaths of eight men.
According to the military, intelligence assessments showed the vessels were traveling along established drug-smuggling routes and were actively engaged in narcotics trafficking. Footage released by the command showed the boats moving at sea before being destroyed by explosions.
The strikes are part of a broader campaign to combat drug trafficking in the region, with more than 20 vessels reportedly targeted in recent operations across the Pacific and Caribbean. US officials have defended the actions, stating that the operations comply with US and international law and follow the principles of armed conflict.
The latest strikes came as the US administration intensified its approach to combating narcotics, including new measures aimed at addressing the fentanyl trade through stronger enforcement and military involvement.
US Military Conducts Deadly Strikes on Suspected Drug Trafficking Vessels in Pacific
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Photo by Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Dominique A. Via Flickr