Hegseth slashes oversight teams
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has reduced Pentagon offices responsible for civilian protection, undermining the U.S. military’s ability to investigate civilian casualties amid the ongoing strikes in Iran. The Civilian Protection Center of Excellence, along with related teams, has seen staff cuts of up to 90 percent, according to officials.
Civilian casualties under scrutiny
The reductions come as investigations continue into the missile strike on an Iranian girls’ school, reportedly killing about 170 children and 14 teachers. The Central Command team monitoring civilian harm has dropped from ten members to just one, sparking concern over the effectiveness of oversight.
Leadership prioritizes “lethality” over safeguards
Hegseth has defended the cuts, framing them as part of a broader push for maximum military lethality. At a press conference, he dismissed existing rules of engagement as “stupid” and emphasised giving warfighters unrestricted authority. Critics argue that this approach risks civilian lives and hinders accountability.
Impact on U.S.-led air campaign
The U.S. and Israel have targeted over 5,000 sites in Iran during the conflict. According to Airwars, the first 100 hours of strikes hit more targets than the first six months of the U.S.-led campaign against ISIS. The elementary school strike occurred during this initial period, raising questions about civilian oversight.
Human rights and accountability concerns
Human rights advocates warn that reducing staff and deprioritising oversight leaves civilians at risk. Annie Shiel from the Center for Civilians in Conflict highlighted that while policies remain, insufficient resources prevent their full implementation, leaving protection measures ineffective.
Hegseth’s controversial track record
Hegseth has a history of challenging laws governing military conduct, gaining attention during the Trump administration for defending troops accused of war crimes. His stance on limiting civilian protection has intensified scrutiny of U.S. military operations abroad, particularly during high-casualty air campaigns.
Source: Politico
Also read: Deadly school strike in Iran raises questions over US operation
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