US military strikes on drug boats kill over 230 people since September

The United States military has killed more than 230 people in strikes on boats in the Caribbean Sea and the eastern Pacific Ocean since September 2025. The boats were suspected of carrying illegal drugs from South America. Washington has called the operations part of its anti-drug and counter-terrorism efforts. However, United Nations human rights officials say the strikes are unlawful killings. Under international law, the targets were civilians, not fighters, because the US is not at war in Latin America. Legal experts say lethal force is only permitted as a last resort when there is an immediate threat to life. The UN has formally condemned the strikes. Some legal experts believe US officials could face prosecution for crimes against humanity.