In a strong appeal this Friday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres echoed calls from the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, urging the United States to halt ongoing air strikes on boats in the Caribbean and the Pacific.
Earlier, High Commissioner Volker Türk condemned a series of attacks since early September that have reportedly killed over 60 people. “The United States must halt such attacks and take all measures necessary to prevent the extrajudicial killing of people aboard these boats, whatever the criminal conduct alleged against them,” the statement said.
Key facts:
- Over 60 civilians reportedly killed since early September
- Strikes span remote waters in the Caribbean and Pacific
- International law requires strict limits on lethal force
At a daily briefing, UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric confirmed that the UN chief fully supports Türk’s analysis. He stressed that any operations must align with international legal standards, including tight rules on the use of force.
Dujarric also highlighted the need for international cooperation and innovative policies to tackle organized crime and drug addiction at their roots. He said, “Combating transnational crime demands coordinated strategies to address underlying social and economic drivers,” underlining a holistic approach to security.
As young global citizens, business leaders, and thought influencers follow this evolving story, many are calling for transparency, accountability, and sustainable solutions that uphold human rights and the rule of law.
Reference(s):
UN chief urges U.S. to halt air strikes on boats in Caribbean, Pacific
cgtn.com
