Why it matters:
The strike reflects Washington’s expanding use of military force under the banner of counter-narcotics and counterterrorism — a campaign that has raised legal and humanitarian concerns over extraterritorial actions in international waters.
What he is saying:
In a post on social media platform X, U.S. War Secretary Pete Hegseth claimed the vessel was operated by a “Designated Terrorist Organization,” but provided no supporting evidence. He attached a 20-second video, labeled “unclassified,” showing a small boat being hit by a munition before exploding.
State of play:
The U.S. has carried out more than a dozen similar strikes since September, primarily near Venezuela’s coast and in the eastern Pacific. These operations have reportedly killed over 60 people, according to U.S. military disclosures.
The big picture:
U.S. officials have increasingly blurred the line between what they describe as 'anti-drug' and 'counterterrorism' missions in the Western Hemisphere. The lack of independent verification or transparent evidence for such claims has drawn skepticism from analysts and regional governments alike.
Between the lines:
While Washington frames these operations as part of its “global security” mandate, critics argue they risk heightening tensions with Latin American nations and expanding U.S. military reach beyond traditional war zones.
What to watch:
Regional reactions — particularly from Venezuela and neighboring Caribbean states — may determine whether the U.S. faces diplomatic pushback or gains tacit support for its continued maritime operations.
Go deeper:
U.S. Forces Moving Toward Venezuela as Trump Rejects Attack Plans
Zohre Khazaee - seyed mohammad kazemi
