Fact-check · Nov 10, 2026 · Pete Hegseth
“Strike campaign at against seagoing vessels alleged to be smuggling narcotics in international waters comprising of at least 69 separate attack events. 40 sick... 46 in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, 21 in the Caribbean Ocean, and the Caribbean Sea, and two in unspecified locations which at least struck 73 vessels and killed at least 243 individuals”
TRUE
What the record shows
As of October 27, 2026: 69 attack events, 73 vessels struck, 243 killed. Geographic breakdown: 46 Eastern Pacific, 21 Caribbean, 2 unspecified locations. (WOLA, Adam Isacson tracking; CNN analysis)
Independent sources confirm all figures in the claim. Campaign began September 2, 2025, under Secretary Hegseth's oversight.
Sources
- White House confirms second strike on alleged drug boat, but denies Hegseth gave the order - CBS News
- Why is Hegseth facing impeachment? Inside the 8 articles on Iran, Maduro and more - CBS News
- Operation Southern Spear
- Hegseth order on first Caribbean boat strike, officials say: Kill them all - The Washington Post
- U.S. launches strikes on 4 alleged drug-running boats in the eastern Pacific, killing 14
- Pete Hegseth Impeachment: The International Law Issues Behind Massie’s Eight Charges
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