KABUL, Afghanistan (September 6) — General David McKiernan, ISAF commander, released a statement today following an operation in Shindand, Herat, Aug. 22:
“Following the recent operation in Azizabad, Shindand district, we realize there is a large discrepancy between the number of civilians casualties reported by US/ANA soldiers and local villagers. I remain responsible to continue to try and account for this disparity in numbers, but above all I want to express our heartfelt sorrow to all families that lost loved ones in this fire fight. We remain committed in support of GIRoA, President Karzai and the people of this great country as we work together against the enemies of Afghanistan. We will recommit to closer coordination between international forces and Afghan National Security Forces. It is my sincere hope that we can continue to focus on a more secure future for Afghanistan.”