The Pentagon's Office of Inspector General has opened an investigation into U.S. military strikes targeting alleged drug boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific Ocean.

According to a May 11 letter from the inspector general's office, the investigation will examine whether military commanders followed proper procedures when conducting the boat strikes. Officials will determine if the standard six-step process required by the U.S. military for approving and carrying out lethal strikes was properly followed.

The review will specifically look at the intelligence and targeting methods used by Southern Command for the strikes, as well as other aspects of military operations against drug cartels. The strikes were part of broader counter-narcotics efforts in the region.

The investigation represents a formal review of military procedures and protocols surrounding these operations. The inspector general's office routinely conducts such reviews to ensure military operations comply with established guidelines and procedures.

No timeline has been announced for when the investigation will be completed or when findings might be released.