This I’m just going to note without comment. An ISAF release I just received.

Three Afghan civilians have been killed in three separate incidents in Nad Ali district in Helmand Province during Operation Moshtarak.

Following a small-arms engagement with insurgents on Sunday, two wounded Afghan men were brought to a joint Afghan-ISAF patrol. The patrol provided first aid and then called for a medical evacuation mission that brought the men to a nearby ISAF medical treatment facility for further care. One of the men subsequently died of his wounds despite receiving medical care.

The two men were initially believed to be insurgents. However, the initial investigation suggests the men were caught in the cross fire between insurgents and the joint force. They were wounded while inside a building that was used by insurgents during the engagement.

Also on Sunday, an Afghan civilian was shot and killed by ISAF forces. The joint Afghan-ISAF unit had been involved in several engagements throughout the day. While conducting clearing operations, the unit was approached by an Afghan male. Despite repeated attempts to warn him to stay clear of their position, the man continued to approach the unit’s position. Servicemembers shouted at the man, fired signal flares, and ultimately fired two shots at him. ISAF medical personnel at the scene were unable to save his life.

In a similar case on Monday, an ISAF unit was approached by a single Afghan male. The servicemembers attempted to divert him away from their position by using hand and arm signals, and then a warning shot. After the warning shot was fired the man began to run towards the patrol. Fearing that he was wearing a suicide vest, ISAF forces shot the man. Although first aid was attempted by medical personnel at the
scene, the man died of his wounds.

“These incidents represent some of the most difficult situations being faced by Afghan and ISAF forces conducting Operation Mostarak. Our forces are continuing to do everything they can to protect civilians,” said Colonel Steven Baker, ISAF Joint Command Combined Joint Operations Cell director. “We regret this loss of life and offer condolences to the families involved. We will work with our Afghan partners to attempt to prevent such tragic events.”

Unit leaders have met village elders to discuss how to minimize future accidents, and the families will be offered compensation according to local customs.

At what point do Afghans disbelieve Col. Baker’s assurance, assuming they don’t currently?