U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth stated that amid the country’s extensive military deployments in Latin America, a new military operation targeting drug cartels and groups described as “narco-terrorists” has officially begun. The operation, named “Southern Spear,” is considered one of the most comprehensive U.S. military efforts against illegal drug trafficking in the Americas.

Scope and Purpose of the Operation

Hegseth said on X that the mission will be led by the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) together with Joint Task Force Southern Spear. The Secretary of Defense said, “This mission defends our Homeland, removes narco-terrorists from our Hemisphere, and fights the drugs killing our people.”

SOUTHCOM’s area of responsibility covers a total of 31 countries across South America, Central America, and the Caribbean.

Announcement Follows Consecutive Strikes and Deaths

Hegseth’s announcement came after the U.S. military carried out its 20th strike on a vessel suspected of carrying narcotics in the Caribbean and Pacific earlier this week. Four people were killed in this latest strike, with no survivors. Resulting in at least 80 deaths since the operation began in early September 2025.

The U.S. administration has significantly increased its military presence in Latin America in recent weeks, deploying aircraft carriers, warships, and thousands of troops.

SOUTHCOM announced on social media that U.S. Marines conducted artillery exercises aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima in the Caribbean, as part of the mission’s operational preparations.

Regional Reactions and Possible Implications

The large-scale U.S. buildup has caused unease in some Latin American countries. Nations with tense relations with Washington argue that the military move may extend beyond just “combating drugs.”

Experts suggest that the operation could heighten diplomatic tensions in the long term and affect the balance of power in the region.