By Matt Underwood US strikes 3 alleged drug vessels and leaves survivors — now a search-and-rescue operation is a story that has many layers, and the more you learn about it, the more complicated it becomes. The core of it involves the U.S. military targeting suspected drug trafficking vessels, resulting in casualties and, notably, a subsequent search-and-rescue operation for survivors. Let’s break it down.
The initial reports came from the U.S. Southern Command, stating that they had engaged three vessels in international waters, claiming these were being used by “narco-terrorists” for drug trafficking. The report indicates that the military action took place on December 30th. Tragically, in the first engagement, three individuals aboard the first vessel were killed. The remaining individuals abandoned the other two vessels, jumping overboard before the vessels were sunk, according to the military’s statement.
This is where the story shifts. While the military claimed to be targeting “narco-terrorists”, the survivors were now in the water. The U.S. Coast Guard was then notified to begin a search and rescue operation. This raises a lot of questions. Why not attempt an arrest? Why resort to lethal force first? These are crucial points to consider.
The Coast Guard confirmed the search-and-rescue, deploying aircraft to assist. They also put out a signal to other mariners in the area, requesting assistance. The timing is also a point of contention. The initial strikes occurred on December 30th, with subsequent strikes on New Year’s Eve targeting two more vessels, resulting in more deaths. The military’s aggressive actions, especially during the holiday season, caused an outcry from those who would normally be more supportive of law enforcement.
These actions have been part of a larger campaign, with at least 34 strikes occurring since September, which resulted in the deaths of at least 115 individuals. The military has stated that the targeted vessels were operated by designated terrorist organizations involved in drug trafficking, based on intelligence. However, what constitutes sufficient proof to justify such drastic actions remains a gray area.
The timing of these events is also interesting considering the recent past. The Trump administration has acknowledged that survivors of an initial series of strikes on an alleged drug vessel on September 2nd were later killed in a follow-up series of strikes. Given the circumstances, the U.S. military’s commitment to search and rescue appears very odd.
The central issue is the justification of these strikes. There is debate over why the authorities do not attempt arrests. Many argue that if the U.S. has intelligence on drug trafficking, they should wait and apprehend the suspects, and those involved, when they reach U.S. territory, or international waters closer to the U.S., where they can be brought to justice through legal channels. The practice of simply destroying the boats and eliminating the occupants raises grave ethical and legal concerns.
The fact that these strikes are taking place in international waters, rather than within U.S. territorial waters, adds another layer of complexity. Critics point out that these actions could be seen as extrajudicial killings, as the individuals were not in custody or afforded due process. This raises questions about international law and the role of the U.S. military.
The focus on “narco-terrorists” is another point of concern. The use of this term, and others like it, is sometimes seen as a way to frame the targeted individuals as inherently dangerous, making the use of lethal force seem more justifiable. The need for proof is essential.
It’s natural to question the intentions behind these actions, especially considering the timing and the potential implications. Some view these strikes as a blatant disregard for human life and an abuse of power, while others see them as necessary measures to combat the drug trade. Either way, the U.S. Coast Guard being ordered to execute a search and rescue operation of those the U.S. military just attacked, feels wrong on many levels.
The survivors were not alive after we found them, according to a report.