London – The United Kingdom has reportedly suspended intelligence cooperation with the United States concerning maritime interdiction operations in the Caribbean Sea, DZWatch has learned.
The decision marks a significant shift in the relationship between the two close allies and intelligence partners. Sources indicate growing concerns within the British government regarding the legality of recent US military actions in the Latin American region.
The UK’s intelligence assets in the Caribbean have historically played a crucial role in identifying vessels suspected of drug trafficking. For years, British intelligence has aided the US Coast Guard in intercepting these vessels, leading to boardings, detentions, and drug seizures. This information was typically relayed to the Joint Interagency Task Force South, a Florida-based task force comprised of representatives from multiple partner nations dedicated to combating illicit drug trade.
However, concerns reportedly escalated following the commencement of lethal strikes against suspected drug-running vessels by the United States last September. The UK government is now apprehensive that intelligence provided by British sources might be used to select targets for these operations. Sources suggest that British officials believe the US military actions, which allegedly resulted in the deaths of 76 individuals, are in violation of international law.
DZWatch understands that the suspension of intelligence sharing has been in effect for over a month. This development underscores the increasing scrutiny surrounding the legal basis of the US campaign in the Americas.
