WASHINGTON (July 20, 2016)—Marla Keenan, Director of Programs for Center for Civilians in Conflict (CIVIC), said:
“As the war against ISIS continues, Syrian civilians once again seem to be the ones that must pay the price. CIVIC is very concerned over reports that dozens of civilians, including many children, have been killed by US-led airstrikes in areas around Manbij, Syria. US Central Command’s willingness to investigate these allegations is welcome, but we call for the investigation to be transparent and speedy, with regular updates and remedial measures announced immediately if the reports are verified. To do less is a failure to act in the spirit of President Obama’s executive order on the protection of civilians issued on July 1.”
Background:
- Syria war: Dozens killed in ‘US-led strikes’ on Manbij
- US: Civilian Protection ‘Fundamentally Consistent’ With National Interests
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Notes to editors:
Center for Civilians in Conflict (CIVIC)’s mission is to improve protection for civilians caught in conflicts around the world. We call on and advise international organizations, governments, militaries, and armed non-state actors to adopt and implement policies to prevent civilian harm. When civilians are harmed we advocate for the provision of amends and post-harm assistance. We bring the voices of civilians themselves to those making decisions affecting their lives.
For more information, contact Christopher Allbritton at +1 (917) 310-4785 or chris@civiliansinconflict.org.
