US strike on an alleged drug boat in eastern Pacific kills two
The United States military conducted an attack on an alleged drug trafficking boat in the eastern Pacific Ocean on Sunday, resulting in at least two deaths. This incident is part of an operation called "Southern Spear," which has targeted over 60 vessels and resulted in more than 210 deaths since September. US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) stated the boat was on a known drug-smuggling route but offered no evidence of narcotics. SOUTHCOM reported notifying the US Coast Guard about six male survivors, without detailing their rescue or condition. Critics question the legality and effectiveness of these strikes, particularly as most fentanyl enters the US overland from Mexico. Lawmakers have also requested unedited video of a previous strike due to concerns about a potential follow-up attack on survivors.