CRIME & LAW

U.S. Military Strikes Vessels; Coast Guard Searches Survivors

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U.S. Military Strikes Vessels; Coast Guard Searches Survivors

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 6

Left 17%

Center 83%

Sources: 6

Washington U.S. military struck three vessels in the eastern Pacific on Dec. 30, and the Coast Guard launched search-and-rescue operations this week after people reportedly jumped from the boats, officials said. Southern Command said one engagement killed three people and follow-on strikes sank two other vessels; the Pentagon notified the Coast Guard of mariners in distress. Searchers deployed a C-130 and coordinated with civilian ships across a 1,000-mile area amid rough seas. Since September, U.S. forces have conducted more than 30 strikes in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, with about 110 deaths. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Since September: U.S. forces conducted over 30 strikes against suspected drug-smuggling vessels in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific.
Dec. 30: Southern Command said it struck three vessels traveling in a convoy in undisclosed international waters.
Immediately after: Southern Command reported three killed in the first engagement and that occupants abandoned two vessels that were later sunk.
Following notification: The Pentagon informed the U.S. Coast Guard, which deployed a C-130 and coordinated search efforts with civilian ships.
Ongoing response: Searches covered roughly 1,000 miles amid rough seas and high winds; overall campaign casualty estimates rose to about 110.