KABUL, Afghanistan–(ENEWSPF)–April 18, 2012 — The commander of the International Security Assistance Force, Gen. John R. Allen, strongly condemns the actions depicted in photos released by LA Times that appear to show U.S. Army personnel posing with the bodies of insurgents who killed themselves in suicide attacks in 2010.
“The actions of the individuals photographed do not represent the policies of ISAF or the U.S. Army,” Allen said. “This behavior and these images are entirely inconsistent with the values of ISAF and all service members of the fifty ISAF countries serving in Afghanistan. We continue to work with our Afghan and international partners to resolve any issues related to improper treatment of remains. This incident is being thoroughly investigated by U.S. national authorities.”
ISAF has a strict policy for the handling of enemy remains and dictates they be processed as humanely as possible. The incident depicted in the LA Times’ photographs represents a serious error in judgment by several soldiers who have acted out of ignorance and unfamiliarity with U.S. Army values.
“These actions undermine the daily sacrifices of thousands of ISAF troops who continue to serve honorably in Afghanistan,” Allen added. “We will collaborate with Afghan authorities and carefully examine the facts and circumstances shown in these photos. As part of this process, we will determine responsibility and accountability of those involved.”
Source: isaf.nato.int
