According to information provided by the U.S. Armed Forces Joint Command via the social network X, the strike was carried out on the orders of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who identified the vessel as belonging to a terrorist organization.
As reported by Reuters, the operation took place in international waters. Since the beginning of September, an estimated 21 vessels have already been sunk, resulting in the deaths of more than 80 people. On November 14, Pete Hegseth announced the launch of Operation "Southern Spear," aimed at drug cartels in the Western Hemisphere.
Following this announcement, Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the State Department plans to designate the organization "Cartel de los Soles" as a "foreign terrorist organization." This action will make any material support for this group in the U.S. punishable by law.
