No doubt high-tech, precision air strikes reduce civilian casualties. However, no technology is perfect and no human operator is error-proof. In mid July a US air strike hit an Afghan wedding convoy, mistaking it for a Taliban force. 47 civilians died in the air strike, 39 were women and children.
The issue of civilian casualties is an emotive one in Afghanistan, feeding a common perception international forces do not take enough care when launching air strikes, and undermining support for their continued presence in the country.
When the battle is over minds and wills, this kind of scene [video] must be an anomaly, not a trend.
Christopher R. Albon is a Ph.D. candidate specializing in armed conflict, public health, human security, and health diplomacy.
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