US military commander in Afghanistan General Stanley McChrystal said he would sharply restrict the use of air strikes in an effort to reduce civilian deaths, The New York Times reported.
The newspaper said McChrystal noted in interviews over the past few days the use of air strikes during firefights in Afghanistan would mostly be allowed only to prevent US and other coalition troops from being overrun.
Even in the case of active firefights with Taliban forces, air strikes will be limited if the combat is taking place in populated areas, the report pointed out.
The restrictions will be especially tight in attacking houses and compounds where insurgents are believed to have taken cover, The Times noted.
"Air power contains the seeds of our own destruction if we do not use it responsibly," McChrystal told a group of his senior officers during a video conference last week, according to the paper. "We can lose this fight."
A report released by the military last week showed a failure by US forces to follow procedures in air strikes last month in Afghanistan "likely" caused the death of at least 26 civilians.
Congratulations on Vicotry Day
The world's most popular sport now has its own day for fans to celebrate — May 25
A conference expected to be held in Dushanbe next week to discuss once again the media law on media
Iran can serve as gateway for Central Asian countries to internal markets, says Iranian ambassador to Tajikistan
Another incident with use of firearms occurs on Tajik-Kyrgyz border
All five Central Asian leaders to attend Victory Day events in Moscow
Tajikistan ranked 1550th out of 180 countries and territories in terms of press freedom
By president’s order Tajik war veterans will receive 40,000 somonis each on the occasion of Victory Day
Tajikistan signs the Declaration on Children, Youth and Climate Action
Italy to host the 58th ADB Annual Meeting in 2025
All news
Авторизуйтесь, пожалуйста