Ecuador

US military strikes have hit Ecuadorian fishing boats, prompting humanitarian concerns from critics and observers over civilian casualties at sea. Despite the backlash, the Trump administration shows no sign of changing course on the operations. The strikes add to growing debate over the legal and humanitarian implications of American military actions against vessels in the region, with questions mounting about accountability and protection of civilian fishermen.

The FDA has issued a warning that black clams imported from Ecuador are linked to a hepatitis A outbreak in the United States, with 30 people hospitalized so far. Consumers are being urged to avoid the shellfish as health officials investigate the source of contamination and track additional cases connected to the product.

Fishing activity in Manta, Ecuador, is showing signs of slowing down, according to the Ecuadorian press. Merchants report fewer products available at retail outlets, while industry leaders say part of the fishing fleet has stopped setting out to sea. The reports raise concern about the local fishing economy and its impact on vendors and workers in the port city.