Eastern pacific: The US military executed a strike on a vessel in the eastern Pacific Ocean, resulting in the deaths of six individuals suspected of being involved in drug trafficking, according to the Southern Command (SOUTHCOM).

According to Anadolu Agency, the operation occurred on Sunday under the orders of Marine Gen. Francis L. Donovan, the commander of SOUTHCOM. The military identified the action as a 'kinetic strike' aimed at a boat allegedly associated with 'Designated Terrorist Organizations.' SOUTHCOM reported that six male individuals, described as narco-terrorists, were killed during the operation, and no US military forces sustained harm.

SOUTHCOM stated that the targeted vessel was engaged in narco-trafficking operations, navigating routes typically used for drug smuggling in the eastern Pacific. However, no further evidence was provided to substantiate these claims. This strike is part of a larger US initiative aimed at targeting suspected drug-trafficking vessels across the Caribbean and eastern Pacific.

According to NBC News, over 40 such strikes have been conducted since September, resulting in more than 140 fatalities. The most recent operation prior to Sunday's strike occurred on February 23, resulting in three deaths. The Trump administration has defended these operations as vital for preventing the influx of illegal drugs into the US, citing national security interests.

Nonetheless, these strikes have faced criticism from some lawmakers and advocacy groups, who have raised concerns about their legal justification.