War Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the approval of two additional airstrikes against vessels suspected of transporting illicit narcotics in international waters. The military operations, conducted by U.S. naval forces, target suspected smuggling vessels believed to be part of larger drug trafficking networks. These strikes are part of an increased military focus on disrupting the flow of narcotics into the country, which has been a growing concern for U.S. officials.
Hegseth’s announcement comes amid rising concerns about the proliferation of illicit drug trafficking routes, particularly in regions where international law enforcement cooperation is limited. The strikes represent a strategic shift in the U.S. military’s approach to counter-narcotic operations, with a focus on direct intervention to dismantle smuggling networks. Officials have emphasized that the actions are intended to protect national security and public health by reducing the availability of illegal drugs within the country.
While the administration has not disclosed the exact locations or identities of the vessels involved, the operation highlights the increasing role of the military in law enforcement activities. This marks a departure from traditional inter-agency approaches to combating drug trafficking, as the military is being called upon to play a more active role in the effort. Hegseth has stated that the strikes are part of a broader strategy to disrupt the supply chain of illicit narcotics and will continue to be a priority for U.S. military operations in the future.