Part 5/12:
The possibility is compounded by the fact that cartels are highly organized, well-resourced, and capable of retaliatory strikes. Their embedded presence within the US and their paramilitary-like structure in Mexico mean any US-led offensive would need to balance efficacy with diplomatic caution.
Designating Drug Cartels as Foreign Terrorist Organizations
A key legal and strategic tool under consideration is the designation of certain drug cartels as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs). Such a designation would afford the US government a broad spectrum of powers, comparable to those used against groups like ISIS or al-Qaeda.