1. United States
2. Idaho
3. Letter

I am writing to express my deep concern and opposition to the recent U.S. military strikes on suspected drug trafficking boats in the eastern Pacific Ocean. These attacks, which resulted in 14 deaths, represent a dangerous escalation in our approach to drug interdiction and raise serious legal and ethical questions. The strikes off the coast of Colombia on Monday mark the deadliest single day in the current administration's campaign against drug trafficking in international waters. This approach is not only causing significant loss of life but also straining our relationships with crucial regional allies. Both Mexico and Colombia have expressed their disagreement with these tactics, potentially jeopardizing our broader diplomatic and security cooperation in the region. The legal basis for these attacks is questionable at best. While President Trump claims authority for these strikes, they appear to violate international law and maritime conventions. Furthermore, the suggestion that similar strikes could be conducted on land is deeply alarming and could lead to even greater loss of life and diplomatic fallout. I urge you to take immediate action to halt these deadly military strikes. Instead, we should focus on evidence-based drug prevention and treatment programs domestically, while working collaboratively with our international partners to address the root causes of drug trafficking. This approach would be more effective, humane, and consistent with our values and international obligations. The current strategy, which Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has compared to the war on terrorism post-9/11, risks escalating tensions in the region and could lead to unintended consequences. The deployment of an aircraft carrier and bombers to the area has already sparked speculation about potential military action against Venezuela, which could further destabilize the region. As your constituent, I ask that you speak out against these deadly strikes and work to redirect our nation's drug policy towards more effective and humane approaches. We need a strategy that prioritizes public health, international cooperation, and respect for human rights, not one that resorts to lethal force as a first response. The lives lost in these strikes demand that we reconsider our tactics and find a better way forward in addressing the complex issue of drug trafficking.