Purpose/Mission

Details: “In the face of the inability or unwillingness of some states in the region to address the continuing threat to United States persons and interests emanating from their territories, we have now reached a critical point where we must meet this threat to our citizens and our most vital national interests with United States military force in self-defense.”

Domestic Legal Authority

Details: “I directed these actions consistent with my responsibility to protect Americans and United States interests abroad and in furtherance of United States national security and foreign policy interests, pursuant to my constitutional authority as Commander in Chief and Chief Executive to conduct United States foreign relations.”

Claimed International Legal Basis

Details: “we must meet this threat… with United States military force in self-defense”

Estimated Scope/Duration

Mission-bound but indeterminate

Details: “It is not possible at this time to know the full scope and duration of military operations that will be necessary. United States forces remain postured to carry out further military operations.”

Type of Enemy or Mission

Details: “a vessel… that was assessed to be affiliated with a designated terrorist organization and to be engaged in illicit drug trafficking activities”; “violent drug trafficking cartels”

Military Activity

Details: “[a]t my direction… United States forces struck a vessel at a location beyond the territorial seas of any nation…”

US Casualties Reported

Unknown

Non-US Casualties Reported

Unknown

Reporting as it Relates to Termination Clock

Unknown