UN expert says US strikes on vessels may be unlawful — Anadolu Agency
UN Special Rapporteur Ben Saul said that US strikes on vessels that Washington described as involved in drug trafficking could constitute crimes against humanity. In his view, there are reasonable grounds to believe that these attacks are unlawful under international law, Anadolu Agency reports.
Data on fatalities
According to Saul, at least 223 people have been killed since September 2, 2025, in attacks by US forces on vessels suspected of involvement in drug trafficking in the Caribbean Sea and the eastern Pacific Ocean.
The rapporteur questioned the legal basis for using military force against people suspected of drug trafficking. He stressed that drug trafficking in itself is not an armed attack that would justify the use of force in self-defense under international law. In his view, suspects should be dealt with through law enforcement methods and with due process of law.
Reports concerning Mexico
Saul also expressed concern over reports of covert operations in Mexico, including alleged targeted killings of cartel leaders and flights by foreign drones over Mexican territory. These reports have not been independently confirmed, and the rapporteur did not name a country that might have been involved in such operations.
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He warned that foreign military operations in Mexico without authorization could violate the country's sovereignty. Saul and other UN experts called for an independent investigation into the deaths and for accountability for those responsible if violations of international law are established.
This comes amid increased US pressure on Mexico over drug trafficking and organized crime. US President Donald Trump has advocated tougher action against drug cartels, while Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has rejected unilateral US military intervention in Mexico.
Ben Saul is an independent expert appointed by the UN Human Rights Council. His statements do not necessarily reflect the position of the United Nations.
