[DLA]

[Not a JAG] I think there are legal interpretations here that I am not qualified to make. However, countless times in Irag, Afghanistan, and elsewhere target vehicles or compounds were struck, killing some and causing others to flee. Fleeing is NOT surrender. So this gets nuanced really quickly.

[jmye]

Are you suggesting that survivors floating on debris in the middle of the ocean were “fleeing”, or is this just useless equivocation and excuse-making?

Why is media in scare quotes in your original post?

[DLA]

God no I am not saying people floating are fleeing; not even the slightest. I was, however, pointing out events from the past and how post-strike targets were often finished in counterterrorism strikes from land wars. This was not a matter of giving no quarter but one of eliminating threats. The cartels have been designated as terrorist organizations, which does open additional operational options. Not passing judgment; trying to consider the complex nuances here.

Media is quoted because The Atlantic tends to be very biased to one side—-they are not objective; they have an agenda.

[maximinus_thrax]

Don't. Check the user's history, this will not be a good faith debate.