Editor in Chief: Moh. Reza Huwaida Friday, March 29th, 2024

US to Probe Afghan Civilian Casualties

US to Probe Afghan  Civilian Casualties

WASHINGTON - US Defense Secretary Leon Panetta has constituted a committee to review allegations of civilian abuse, injuries and casualties in Afghanistan and Iraq, the Pentagon announced on Friday.
In a memorandum, dated July 30, the secretary said the application of military justice to service members alleged to have committed offences against civilians in combat zones was of particular concern to him.

"We know that, over the last 10 years in Iraq and Afghanistan, bad things have happened involving combat excesses and innocent civilians," Panetta said in his memorandum.

"The abuses have been rare among our professional fighting force, but they become huge flash points that threatened to undermine our entire mission and the foundation of our relationship with the host government and its people."

Directed to complete its investigation within 210 days, the Board is co-chaired by Judith Miller, former General Counsel of the Department of Defense, and Maj. Gen. (R) Walter Huffman.
"This is part of the secretary's ongoing interest in the accountability of particularly in deployed areas," Jay Johnson, general counsel of the Department of Defense, told Pentagon reporters during an off-camera news conference.

Responding to questions, Johnson said the number of cases could be significant as they went back to 10 years. This is not about any pending case or investigation, he clarified.

Panetta explained the review should not encompass allegations of detainee abuse or instances of collateral damage or "friendly fire" incident to a lawful military operation. "Nor should the review pass judgment on the results of military justice in a particular case or intrude upon any pending case or investigation."

If needed, members of the board might visit Afghanistan, Johnson said. (Pajhwok)