The Use and Abuse of ‘Narco-Terrorism’

From Afghanistan to Venezuela, the misleading term has inspired decades of misguided policies against real problems.

Three men in the foreground have their hands tied behind their backs and white blindfolds over their eyes. In the background is a helicopter and two men wearing military-style uniforms and headphones. November 7, 2025, 11:30 AM Comment icon View Comments ( )

Since early September, the U.S. military has launched a series of deadly attacks against suspected drug-running boats in the Caribbean and Pacific Ocean, resulting in the deaths of at least 70 people so far.

The Trump administration has presented several dubious legal and rhetorical arguments for these controversial—and unlawful —operations. Many center around “n

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