A surge in U.S. military strikes targeting vessels suspected of drug trafficking has resulted in at least 231 deaths across 69 separate attacks since the policy was launched nearly a year ago. The campaign, aimed at dismantling what officials describe as "narcoterrorist" networks, has intensified maritime operations with lethal consequences. Critics question the precision and legality of the strikes, which have raised concerns over civilian casualties in the region. The rising toll underscores the human cost of the escalated counter-narcotics strategy.
The latest attack brings the number of people who have been killed in boat strikes by the US military to at least 231 in 69 strikes since the Trump administration began targeting those it calls “narcoterrorists” almost a year ago.
