Via FoxNews.
A military source close to Gen. David Petraeus told Fox News that one of the first things the general will do when he takes over in Afghanistan is to modify the rules of engagement to make it easier for U.S. troops to engage in combat with the enemy, though a Petraeus spokesman pushed back on the claim.I've been watching the other military blogs and none have even mentioned this story. This is huge news!
Troops on the ground and some military commanders have said the strict rules -- aimed at preventing civilian casualties -- have effectively forced the troops to fight with one hand tied behind their backs.
The military source who has talked with Petraeus said the general will make those changes. Other sources were not so sure, but said they wouldn't be surprised to see that happen once Petraeus takes command.
There's a saying that everytime you get a new Commander, they want you painting rocks...something to signify a change...this is something substantial and long over due. If its true then well done General.
He's a smart one. He signed off on the restrictive ROE, and now repeals it to look like good guy- am I far off?
ReplyDeleteif the chain of command was traditional then i'd say yes but the abortion that is Afghanistan has that commander reporting directly to the white house.
ReplyDeleteso i'm not sure. i know that we didn't have those restrictive type rules of engagement in Iraq and Patreus was in charge of that too (at least on paper)...
i get the feeling that the ROE's came from McChrystal bowing to the wishes of Karzai.