By: Bernadette Carreon
Palau has partnered with the U.S. Coast Guard during a recent 300-hour joint operation that targeted illegal fishing activities across Pacific waters.
According to the Defense Visual Information Distribution Service ( DVIDS) website, two officers from Palau’s Division of Marine Law participated directly in the operation aboard the U.S. Coast Guard cutter Myrtle Hazard during June and July 2025.
“The law enforcement deal helps the island nation monitor its exclusive economic zone and discourage illicit activity by enabling the U.S. Coast Guard to enforce maritime regulations on Palau’s behalf,” the press release stated.
Our close collaboration with our valued regional partners is instrumental in promoting a secure and prosperous Pacific,” said Lt. Emma Saunders, commanding officer of the Myrtle Hazard. “The dedication of our crew, combined with the strong teamwork displayed by Palau’s maritime officers, significantly enhanced our collective ability to safeguard these waters through cross-agency cooperation for a rules-based Pacific.”
The operation covered waters around Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and Palau itself. With coordinated effort, Palau and the US worked on deterring illegal activities across the region’s vast ocean expanse.
Illegal fishing continues to threaten Pacific marine ecosystems and the livelihoods of island communities,