Mexico's MFA: No foreign nationals harmed amid unrest

Mexico’s Foreign Ministry said no foreign nationals have been harmed following a major security operation in the western state of Jalisco that triggered violent unrest in several parts of the country.

In a statement on X, the ministry said it is in contact with diplomatic missions accredited in Mexico and expressed appreciation for messages of support for the country’s security forces, Caliber.Az reports. 

“At this time, there are no reports of foreign nationals harmed. However, the Ministry stands ready to respond to any report or request for assistance,” it said.

. @SRE_mx is in contact with the diplomatic missions accredited in Mexico and appreciates the messages of support for our Security Forces.

At this time, there are no reports of foreign nationals harmed. However, the Ministry stands ready to respond to any report or request for…

— Relaciones Exteriores (@SRE_mx) February 23, 2026

The ministry added that, according to the Security Cabinet, peace and security have been restored in areas affected by the operation carried out on February 22. Mexico’s missions abroad have been informed of the developments, and authorities are in communication with embassies in Mexico that have issued consular advisories for their citizens, providing additional information as required.

“In Mexico, the rule of law prevails to protect the security and wellbeing of everyone in the country,” the statement said.

The statement follow a sharp escalation in violence after Mexican security forces killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as “El Mencho,” during an operation in Jalisco on February 22, 2026.

Oseguera Cervantes was the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), one of Mexico’s most powerful drug trafficking organisations. The cartel has an extensive presence across the country and is heavily involved in the production and trafficking of fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin and cocaine.

Following news of his death, clashes, vehicle burnings and roadblocks were reported across multiple states as cartel fighters reacted to the raid. Analysts warn that the killing of a major cartel leader can trigger violent reprisals or internal power struggles as rival factions seek to fill the vacuum.

Mexico has long faced high levels of organised crime and cartel-related homicides, with states such as Guanajuato, Michoacán and Colima historically among the most affected by turf wars linked to drug trafficking and criminal activity.

By Sabina Mammadli