When a terrorist bombing in Kansas City is linked to Mexican drug cartels, the U.S. government classifies the cartels as terrorist organizations, intensifying the conflict at the border. Federal agent Matt Graver is called upon to apply extreme measures to combat the threat. He devises a plan to instigate a war between the major cartels, believing that their mutual destruction will disrupt the smuggling of terrorists across the U.S.-Mexico border. Graver recruits Alejandro Gillick, a former Mexican prosecutor turned assassin, to assist him in executing the covert operation.

Graver and Gillick's strategy includes the kidnapping of Isabela Reyes, the young daughter of a top kingpin, to ignite suspicion and conflict among the cartels. They successfully carry out the abduction, making it appear as though it was perpetrated by a rival cartel. However, the operation becomes complicated, leading to unexpected consequences. The web of deception and violence they are ensnared in is rapidly tightened, as the actions of the U.S. operatives have deep and far-reaching impacts on the people involved. In the midst of the chaos, Gillick forms a bond with Isabela, which complicates the mission and tests his resolve, raising the stakes on both a personal and professional level.