A US military strike on a boat in the Caribbean lacked conclusive evidence that the targets were members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, according to Senator Jack Reed and sources familiar with a briefing to congressional staff. Briefers acknowledged inability to confirm the boat's origin, destination, or whether the targets posed an imminent threat. The Pentagon claims the strike was legal, citing presidential authority and intelligence suggesting drug trafficking, but the lack of definitive proof of gang affiliation has raised concerns among lawmakers who question the legal justification and demand further evidence.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.