On September 2, 2023, the U.S. military executed a strike on a boat in the Caribbean believed to be involved in drug trafficking, resulting in the deaths of at least 11 individuals. This operation was part of a broader campaign initiated by the Trump administration, which has conducted over 20 similar strikes in recent months, leading to at least 87 fatalities. Critics argue that these actions may lack legal justification, especially given the reported deaths of survivors from subsequent strikes.

Following the initial attack, a second strike was ordered, which killed two survivors who had been seen clinging to the wreckage and signaling for help. Observers interpreted their actions as potentially indicating a desire to surrender or seek rescue, raising questions about compliance with the rules of armed conflict. Military officials claimed that the survivors might have been attempting to communicate with other alleged traffickers, which they argued justified the follow-up strike. However, this rationale has been contested by lawmakers and legal experts, who suggest that targeting individuals who are no longer engaged in combat could constitute a war crime.

Admiral Frank Bradley, who oversaw the operation, defended the military's actions, asserting that the strikes were necessary to prevent drug trafficking. However, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth distanced himself from the decision to conduct the second strike, citing the 'fog of war' as a factor in the chaotic situation. Representative Adam Smith criticized this justification, noting that video evidence showed the survivors posed no imminent threat.

The incident has intensified congressional scrutiny of the military's operations, with ongoing debates among lawmakers regarding the legality of the broader campaign against drug trafficking. Critics, including members from both political parties, have labeled these actions as extrajudicial killings, emphasizing the need for adherence to legal and ethical standards in military operations. The evolving narrative surrounding these strikes highlights the complexities of military engagement in drug enforcement and the humanitarian implications for those involved, raising critical questions about accountability and the justification for such lethal actions in international waters.