• U.S. military conducted its 10th strike on a drug vessel in the Caribbean, killing six.
• The operation targeted the Tren de Aragua gang, linked to drug trafficking.
• Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated narco-terrorists will be treated like Al-Qaeda.
• Pace of strikes has increased, with three conducted in one week.
• Concerns over legality and international law raised by critics and lawmakers.

The U.S. military conducted its 10th strike against a vessel linked to the Tren de Aragua gang, which was allegedly involved in narcotics trafficking in the Caribbean. This strike, which took place at night, resulted in the death of six individuals onboard, bringing the total death toll in this campaign to at least 46, according to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who announced the details via social media posts India Times, Reuters, South China Morning Post, and CBS News.

The frequency of these strikes has significantly escalated, with three occurring within a single week, following a prior pace of one every few weeks since the campaign commenced in September. Hegseth noted that this was the first nighttime strike, exemplifying a tactical shift in operations against drug trafficking. The attacks were carried out in international waters, which has led to increased military presence and scrutiny in the region Al Jazeera, Los Angeles Times, and South China Morning Post.

Hegseth stated, "If you are a narco-terrorist smuggling drugs in our hemisphere, we will treat you like we treat Al-Qaeda," emphasizing a robust stance against drug trafficking. This rhetoric reflects a broader narrative under the Trump administration, which is linking drug traffickers to terrorism, allowing for military responses Reuters, CBS News, and India Times.

The use of military force against drug cartels raises legal dilemmas, as international law generally restricts the unilateral use of force unless for self-defense. Human rights advocates criticize these strikes, arguing they could potentially violate international norms Al Jazeera and South China Morning Post.