• drug trafficking is a law enforcement matter rather than a war, and drug cartels do not meet the criteria of organized armed groups engaged in armed conflict under international law.

• Lack of Congressional Authorization: Critics point out that Congress has not authorized military force for these operations, meaning the strikes violate the War Powers Resolution and domestic criminal statutes.

• Violations of International and Maritime Law: Legal analysts note that lethal force in international waters is only lawful under international law if there is an immediate, proportional threat to the nation—which drug-carrying boats do not legally satisfy.

• Concerns Over Rules of Engagement: Scrutiny has also intensified over reports of secondary ("double-tap") strikes or instances targeting survivors, which critics and human rights groups argue violate laws of war prohibiting the execution of individuals who are shipwrecked or no longer able to fight.