US-backed op kills Mexican cartel leader, raising death toll amid regional instability surge

A US-backed operation led to the killing of a Mexican drug cartel leader, resulting in a rise in the death toll as suspected cartel members retaliate. The U.S. commended Mexican authorities for their role in the operation. The targeted cartel is considered one of the largest and most notorious narco-terrorist groups in Mexico. The rising death toll indicates escalating violence following the leader's death.