PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 13, 2016
Statement on Possible Civilian Casualties in Syria
U.S. Central Command

Tampa, Fla. – September 13, 2016
Release Number 20160913-26
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TAMPA, Fla. – A total of three strikes within the past 6 days on ISIL targets in Syria may have resulted in civilian casualties.

In a strike on Sep. 7, near Dayz Az Zawr, Syria, on an ISIL target, what appeared to be a non-military vehicle drove into the target area after the weapon was released from the aircraft.

In a different strike on Sep. 10, near Ar Raqqah, Syria, a strike against an ISIL target may have resulted in the death of civilians near where the strike occurred.

In a third strike instance on Sep. 12, near Ash Shaddadah, Syria, during a strike against an ISIL target, what appeared to be a non-military vehicle drove into the target area after the weapon was released from the aircraft.

CENTCOM has extensive processes and techniques in place to avoid or minimize civilian casualties. Every report of civilian casualties, from either internal or external sources, is scrutinized regarding possible casualties and collateral damage. Assessments that are determined to be credible are reviewed as to whether the actions comply with the principles of the Law of Armed Conflict.