The United States has opened a new military front in Ecuador while the Iran war continues. U.S. and Ecuadorian forces have launched joint operations against groups described as “designated terrorist organizations.”

The U.S. military did not provide full details but said the operations are linked to President Donald Trump’s intensified campaign against drug trafficking in South America.

Marine General Francis L. Donovan, Commander of the U.S. Southern Command, praised Ecuadorian forces. He said they have shown “remarkable courage and resolve” in their fight against narco-terrorists.

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Since returning to the Oval Office, President Trump has stepped up efforts against drug trafficking. The U.S. has conducted around 45 strikes on suspected smuggling vessels in the Caribbean and Pacific, reportedly killing about 150 people.

Ecuador has been under a state of emergency due to narco-terrorism since 2024. The situation escalated after gangs stormed a TV station during a live broadcast, taking staff hostage.

Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa requested U.S. support against the drug gangs. In September last year, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited Ecuador and promised strong action against the gangs, reaffirming America’s support for Ecuador’s anti-narcotics campaign.