Colombian Family Files Urgent Human Rights Complaint Over U.S. Strike

UPDATE: The family of a Colombian fisherman has filed an urgent human rights complaint with the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights following a deadly U.S. military strike that claimed the life of Alejandro Carranza on September 15, 2023. This shocking incident occurred off the coast of Colombia and is part of what the U.S. claims is a campaign against transnational drug-trafficking networks.

The complaint, filed earlier today, alleges that the airstrike resulted in an extrajudicial execution, directly implicating U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and former President Donald Trump in the decision-making process. The family contends that Carranza was merely performing his regular fishing duties when the strike occurred, despite the U.S. asserting that its operations comply with the Law of Armed Conflict.

According to the petition, the U.S. military has conducted over 20 strikes since early September on vessels deemed linked to drug trafficking, resulting in more than 80 deaths, with only three survivors. The family claims Carranza’s boat sent a distress signal prior to the attack and was identifiable in footage captured that day, showing it ablaze after the missile hit.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has publicly condemned the strikes, labeling them as a dangerous escalation in the Caribbean’s security landscape. In a post on X, he stated, “A new theater of war has opened: the Caribbean. Evidence shows that the last boat bombed was Colombian, with Colombian citizens on board.” He has urged other families to come forward and file complaints regarding similar incidents.

Human rights attorney Daniel Kovalik, representing Carranza’s family, is calling for a comprehensive investigation into the strikes, demanding accountability and reparations. Kovalik emphasizes the need for a review of the legality of these operations, highlighting the potential violation of international human rights standards.

The Inter-American Commission has expressed deep concern regarding the extraterritorial use of lethal force by the U.S., reaffirming that all states must guarantee the right to life and due process, even during military operations beyond their borders. The Commission urges the U.S. to avoid using lethal military force in public security operations and insists on thorough, impartial investigations into all casualties arising from these actions.

This complaint sheds light on the real human toll of military operations and raises critical questions about the legality and ethics of U.S. actions in the region. As the situation develops, further pressure may mount on the U.S. government to reassess its military strategy in the Caribbean.

Next Steps: The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights will now consider the petition, potentially leading to further investigations. Meanwhile, the Colombian government and international observers will be closely monitoring the U.S.’s response to this escalating human rights issue.