In recent military operations, the US has conducted strikes on several vessels in the Eastern Pacific, targeting alleged narco-traffickers. The Pentagon has confirmed that these strikes have resulted in the deaths of at least 4 individuals in one instance, with additional reports indicating as many as 8 fatalities in other strikes. This comes amid escalating tensions surrounding Venezuela, with former President Trump accusing the country of taking US oil. Critics have labeled these operations as crimes against humanity, urging congressional action to address the lethal uses of force at sea. The US military states that these operations are part of ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in the region.