US strikes second alleged drug boat in a week, bringing death toll to 133

The Guardian World

by Dara Kerr

February 14, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The U.S. military’s Southern Command confirmed its second deadly boat strike in a week, targeting suspected drug smugglers in the Caribbean and raising the death toll to 133. The latest operation occurred on Friday, with intelligence identifying the vessel as operating along known narco-trafficking routes. A video released by the command showed the boat exploding into flames after being struck by what appeared to be a missile. This strike marks a shift in focus for U.S. counter-narcotics efforts, as most recent operations have primarily targeted drug trafficking activities in the Pacific. The Caribbean has seen fewer such strikes since November, making this action notable. The Southern Command emphasized that the vessel was engaged in active narco-trafficking operations, aligning with ongoing efforts to disrupt the flow of illegal drugs through the region. This strike highlights the U.S. military’s continued use of advanced surveillance and targeting technology to locate and neutralize drug-smuggling vessels. The escalation in Caribbean operations comes amid concerns about the resilience of drug trafficking networks. While these strikes have been effective in dismantling smuggling routes, critics question their long-term impact on reducing drug-related violence and crime. The shift in focus also underscores the evolving nature of U.S. counter-narcotics strategy, which now prioritizes high-impact operations over broader regional cooperation efforts. This development is significant for readers interested in global security and drug policy. It raises questions about the effectiveness of military strikes in addressing the root causes of drug trafficking and highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing enforcement with human rights concerns. The increased attention to the Caribbean underscores its strategic importance as a transit hub for illegal drugs, making it a critical front in the broader fight against narcotics worldwide.

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/14/2026