The U.S. military has been active in the Caribbean and Pacific, with recent attacks resulting in significant casualties. Since September 2025, at least 133 people have lost their lives due to these operations. The U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) reported targeted strikes aimed at individuals suspected of drug trafficking, calling them “narco-terrorists.”
In a recent incident, a missile strike on a boat killed three people. This follows another strike earlier this week that claimed two lives. Critics, including international law experts, argue that such actions constitute extrajudicial killings, raising serious ethical and legal concerns.
The push for aggressive military action was backed by U.S. officials, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. They describe it as a necessary step to combat drug cartels in Latin America. President Trump has characterized the U.S. involvement as an “armed conflict” to curb drug flows into the country.
Statistics reveal a worrying trend. There have been around 38 strikes targeting 40 vessels in international waters, illustrating a marked increase in military engagement in this area. Recent legal opinions suggest that the U.S. may lack the lawful grounds to conduct these attacks. Individuals accused of drug-related offenses are entitled to due process, yet this has not been prioritized in these operations.
Social media reactions have also reflected this tension, with many expressing outrage over the potential human rights violations involved. As the situation unfolds, it raises crucial questions about the balance between national security and human rights.
For a deeper look at international military laws, you can refer to this report by Human Rights Watch.
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