This screen grab from a video posted by US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on his X account shows what he called a deadly strike on 'narco-terrorists' in the Caribbean Handout

The US Justice Department on Wednesday defended lethal military strikes on suspected drug traffickers, brushing aside charges they may amount to extrajudicial killings that merit legal prosecution.

"The strikes were ordered consistent with the laws of armed conflict, and as such are lawful orders," a Justice Department spokesperson said.

US service members who participate in the strikes, which have left at least 76 people dead, do not risk prosecution, the spokesperson said.

"Military personnel are legally obligated to follow lawful orders and, as such, are not subject to prosecution for following lawful orders.

See Full Page