The UN's human rights chief, Volker Türk, has addressed US military strikes targeting vessels suspected of carrying drugs in the Caribbean and Pacific, citing concerns about their legality under international law. Over 60 fatalities have reportedly occurred in these strikes since early September. The US has defended its actions, with President Donald Trump stating the operations are necessary for drug interdiction and fall within his legal authority.
UN Human Rights Chief's Statement on US Strikes
Volker Türk stated on Friday that US military strikes on vessels allegedly transporting drugs in the Caribbean and Pacific raise concerns regarding international law and the use of lethal force. He indicated that the attacks amount to "extrajudicial killing" and are "unacceptable." Türk reported that more than 60 people have reportedly been killed in these strikes since early September. He called for an an immediate halt to the operations and requested prompt, independent, and transparent investigations.
President Donald Trump has defended the US actions, asserting their necessity to curb the flow of drugs into the United States. He has stated that he possesses the legal authority to continue these operations in international waters.
International Law and Lethal Force
Türk acknowledged the challenges associated with tackling drug trafficking but stated that the circumstances of the deadly strikes "find no justification in international law." He clarified that addressing illicit drug trafficking across international borders is considered a law-enforcement matter, subject to international human rights law concerning lethal force.
According to Türk, international law permits the intentional use of lethal force "only as a last resort against individuals who pose an imminent threat to life." He noted that based on publicly provided information from US authorities, individuals on the targeted boats did not appear to pose an imminent threat to others' lives. Türk urged the US to employ law enforcement methods such as intercepting boats, detaining suspects, and, if appropriate, prosecuting individuals.
Regional and Congressional Responses
Most strikes have occurred off the coast of South America in the Caribbean. Attacks in the Pacific this week reportedly resulted in at least 18 deaths, according to US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth. The US has deployed troops, aircraft, and naval vessels to the Caribbean, including the USS Gerald R Ford warship last week.
The strikes have elicited condemnation in the region, and experts have questioned their legality. Members of the US Congress, from both Democratic and Republican parties, have also expressed concerns and questioned the president's authority to order these operations. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated her government's disagreement with the attacks and has requested meetings with the US ambassador, emphasizing the need to respect all international treaties.