Senate Identifies Drug Cartels as Top U.S. Security Threat

During the annual threat assessment hearing, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard identified drug cartels and gangs as the most immediate threat to the U.S., highlighting their role in the trafficking of synthetic opioids like fentanyl, which caused over 52,000 deaths in the past year. This marks a significant shift as, for the first time, the intelligence report prioritized transnational criminal organizations over traditional state actors like China and Russia. Gabbard noted a 33% decrease in opioid-related deaths due to increased availability of naloxone, but warned that cartels remain dangerously violent, intensifying their attacks in Mexico. The report omitted any mention of climate change, which had been addressed in previous assessments, leading to criticism from some senators. Additionally, the intelligence community's focus on drug trafficking may reshape legislative priorities and funding, particularly regarding border security and anti-cartel operations. The situation underscores a growing urgency to address the intertwined threats of drug trafficking and organized crime within U.S. national security strategies.