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U.S. Strikes Narco-Terrorists: 11 Killed in Pacific Operations

2/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. Southern Command said the U.S. struck three vessels in the Eastern Pacific and Caribbean on February 16, killing 11 narco-terrorists.
The operation lifts the death toll to at least 144 since it began in September.
The strikes were the first to target both sides of the Panama Canal.
Critics question the legality of the actions.
The approach has shifted to lethal strikes under U.S. President Donald Trump.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. invasion of Panama, initiated on December 20, 1989, aimed to depose General Manuel Noriega, who was implicated in drug trafficking and had annulled democratic elections. This military action, involving over 27,000 troops, marked a shift in U.S. foreign policy, raising legal concerns about national security versus international law, a debate that continues with current counter-narcotics operations.

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Story summary

U.S. Southern Command said the U.S. struck three vessels in the Eastern Pacific and Caribbean on February 16, killing 11 narco-terrorists.
The operation lifts the death toll to at least 144 since it began in September.
The strikes were the first to target both sides of the Panama Canal.
Critics question the legality of the actions.
The approach has shifted to lethal strikes under U.S. President Donald Trump.

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