Former Army JAG: Boat Strike Was “Unlawful”

Interview
Written By David Petri

Lieutenant Colonel Daniel Maurer, USA (Ret)

Former Judge Advocate General

BBC World News

December 4, 2025

Retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel and former Judge Advocate General (JAG), Daniel Maurer, analyzes reports of a U.S. boat strike targeting suspected narco-terrorists in this interview. Maurer challenges the legal justification behind the strike, argues that drug cartels are not lawful military targets under international law, and explains why he believes the use of lethal force was unlawful. He also discusses responsibility in the chain of command, calls for a full congressional investigation, and addresses the likelihood of legal consequences.

David Petri

Dave Petri is a marketing and sustainability professional with 30 years of leadership experience across multiple industries. Since 2010, Dave’s professional experience has primarily been in the Outdoor Industry, including industry-wide leadership roles. He launched Cynosura Consulting in 2019 and is the principal consultant, providing his expertise to various companies and organizations in the manufacturing, hospitality, and event management sectors.

https://www.cynosurallc.com
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