New U.S. Boat Strike Kills 3 in the Caribbean

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by Carol Rosenberg

February 14, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The U.S. military conducted a strike in the Caribbean Sea on February 14, 2026, targeting a suspected drug-smuggling vessel. This operation resulted in three fatalities and marks the latest escalation in a five-month campaign against narco-traffickers at sea. The death toll from these operations has now reached 133 individuals, according to the U.S. Southern Command. The strike was the first in the Caribbean since early November and the 39th disclosed by the government in this initiative. A video clip released alongside the announcement shows a missile striking the boat as it navigated open waters. The command asserts that the vessel was operating along known drug-trafficking routes, citing unspecified intelligence to justify the action. However, legal experts argue that these strikes constitute illegal extrajudicial killings. They maintain that the military cannot intentionally target civilians who do not pose an imminent threat of violence, even if suspected of criminal activity. This raises significant concerns about the legality and ethics of the U.S. campaign. The controversy underscores broader debates over the use of lethal force in counter-drug operations. Critics highlight potential violations of international law and human rights principles, emphasizing the need for accountability and adherence to judicial processes. For readers following international news, human rights issues, or U.S. foreign policy, this story sheds light on the ongoing tensions between enforcement efforts and legal obligations. The stakes are high as the U.S. continues its aggressive approach against drug trafficking in the region, prompting calls for scrutiny of its methods and implications. This matter is crucial as it not only affects regional security but also challenges the global norms governing the use of force.

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/14/2026