The U.S. military has blown up an alleged drug-smuggling vessel in the Eastern Pacific, leaving three survivors. The vessel was reportedly operated by a designated terrorist organization and transiting along known narco-trafficking routes. The military contacted the U.N. Coast Guard to assist in the search and rescue. Since September 2, the military has conducted at least 45 lethal strikes against alleged drug smugglers, killing at least 157. The administration has claimed these strikes are helping to reduce the flow of illicit drugs in the region.