U.S. Defense Secretary Says Drug Cartels Are Under Surveillance

US monitors cartels

Hegseth warns of future actions

Operations only with presidential order

According to Zócalo, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth stated that the US government is keeping close watch on drug cartels.

In an interview given on August 11 to journalist Laura Ingraham for Fox News, Hegseth said authorities know “more than they think” about these criminal organizations.

The official noted that this monitoring has been constant and thorough.

He also indicated that fighting the cartels is a strategic priority for the country.

Intensive surveillance against criminal groups

Cartels on Notice.@SecDef: “We are watching, we know a little bit more than they think we might know about them.” pic.twitter.com/OwcJt514o8

— Laura Ingraham (@IngrahamAngle) August 11, 2025

During the conversation, Hegseth recalled that President Donald Trump decided last February to designate several cartels as terrorist organizations.

This measure, he explained, has strengthened US agencies’ ability to observe and track them.

“We are watching. We know more than they think we can know about them. We have spent a lot of time watching them,” the secretary emphasized.

His statements suggest there is a high level of classified information on the activities of these organizations.

US Defense Secretary monitors cartels and awaits presidential order

US monitors cartels according to Defense Secretary – PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

Despite the intensity of the surveillance, Hegseth stressed that any direct action against the cartels will only be carried out under presidential orders.

He underlined that operations will take place “when it makes sense” and at the most opportune moment for US interests.

“I can’t reveal anything, but I’m not showing my hand,” he added, hinting that plans are being kept in reserve.

The official avoided specifying what concrete actions might be taken or whether international operations are being considered.

Discretion over operations

US Defense Secretary PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

Hegseth, who took office as Secretary of Defense just over six months ago, has maintained a firm stance on national security.

His public appearances often draw media attention, especially due to his direct tone.

On this occasion, he insisted he would not disclose information that could compromise intelligence work.

“The important thing is that they don’t know how far we can go,” he said in the interview.

Security priority for the United States

According to Hegseth, the fight against drug cartels is not only a matter of national security but also of citizen protection.

He recalled that these criminal organizations are linked to the trafficking of drugs, weapons, and people into US territory.

Designating them as terrorist organizations seeks to toughen legal and operational measures against them.

This could include financial sanctions and greater cooperation with allied governments.

Pete Hegseth’s statements create expectation over future actions

The international community and security analysts remain attentive to any sign of concrete measures.

Pete Hegseth’s statements fuel speculation about possible coordinated operations against the cartels.

Meanwhile, the official insists on maintaining discretion and that decisions will be made “when it makes sense.”

In this scenario, the US strategy combines intensive surveillance, diplomatic pressure, and the possibility of direct action under presidential approval.