Defense department watchdog opens inquiry into US airstrikes on alleged drug boats
The Pentagon's internal watchdog has launched an investigation into US airstrikes targeting alleged drug boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific. The inquiry will assess whether military commanders adhered to the required procedures before executing these lethal strikes. The operation has faced significant backlash, with critics arguing it violates international law and disproportionately affects impoverished communities.
- ▪The investigation will determine if the standard six-step process was followed before the strikes.
- ▪Operation Southern Spear has resulted in at least 58 attacks, killing 193 people, including many with no ties to drug trafficking.
- ▪Human rights groups have condemned the strikes as extrajudicial executions and violations of international law.
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Lynette Burnley mourns her nephew Chad Joseph, who family members say was killed in a US airstrike, in Trinidad and Tobago on 22 October 2025. Photograph: Andrea de Silva/ReutersView image in fullscreenLynette Burnley mourns her nephew Chad Joseph, who family members say was killed in a US airstrike, in Trinidad and Tobago on 22 October 2025. Photograph: Andrea de Silva/ReutersUS militaryDefense department watchdog opens inquiry into US airstrikes on alleged drug boatsOfficials will determine if standard process was followed before lethal strikes in Caribbean and eastern Pacific Sign up for the Breaking News US newsletter email Joseph Gedeon in WashingtonTue 19 May 2026 11.53 EDTLast modified on Tue 19 May 2026 11.54 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleThe Pentagon’s internal watchdog…
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