Nato Admits Killing Civilians on 4th August

NATO-led forces have confirmed killing Afghan civilians during an operation in eastern Afghanistan on 4th August. In a little reported incident, civilians were killed in a 'firefight', said a statement issued by the International Security Assistance Forces ( ISAF) on 6th August.

"Following information received from provincial and local Nangarhar officials, it appears that between four and a dozen or more civilians were killed," it said.

The statement also said 15 to 20 insurgents, including two senior 'Taliban leaders' were killed in the operation. The joint forces called in air cover as they continued to take fire from insurgents when they were leaving the area. Rear Admiral Greg Smith, ISAF director of communication, said coalition forces deeply regret the deaths of civilians and will work with the Afghan government to conceal 'probe' the incident.

Thoughtful and considerate of them to get the numbers right. About as thorough and competent as all their activities.