US strikes alleged narco-trafficking vessel in Pacific, killing three

The United States military has carried out a strike on a vessel suspected of narco-trafficking in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, resulting in the deaths of three individuals. The operation was announced by the US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), which stated that intelligence confirmed the vessel was transiting along known narco-trafficking routes and was engaged in illicit activities.

According to a post on X by SOUTHCOM, no US troops were harmed during the operation. The strike was part of a broader initiative called Operation Southern Spear, which was announced by Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth in November 2025. The operation targets alleged drug cartels operating in the region.

The Eastern Pacific is a known corridor for drug trafficking, with cartels often using vessels to transport narcotics from South America to North America. The US military has frequently conducted interdiction operations in the area, often in coordination with partner nations.

The incident highlights the ongoing US efforts to combat drug trafficking, which remains a significant security concern. According to the report by Mehr News, the strike was based on intelligence that confirmed the vessel's involvement in narco-trafficking operations.