Afghan Tragedy

Such terrible news when a rescue mission goes wrong and worse when friend kills friend. I have heard various officers defending the very sad outcome as a risk inherent in a dangerous mission. There are some questions to answer nevertheless. Two in particular:

Why was the mission launched against the advice of local tribal elders and Mullahs, who were trying to negotiate the hostage’s release?

Why were hand grenades thrown in the proximity of the hostage?

One can only imagine the suffering and grief, made even worse by today’s news, of this brave woman’s family and friends.

This should be a moment of quiet reflection and sympathy for them.