There is more than a little "reverse PC" in the squawking about this thing. Some facts that need to be pinned down are: (1) Did the accused order the cuffs be removed from the two detainees? (2) Did the accused then order the other two guys to go to other areas, leaving him alone with two now uncuffed detainees?
According to Pantano...
After learning that there were weapons in the house, Lt. Pantano ordered Corpsman Gobles to handcuff the men, identified as Hamaady Kareem and Tahah Ahmead Hanjil. The pair, believed to have resided in the insurgent-infested town of Latifiyah, resisted but were eventually subdued.
Shortly after that, reports state, Lt. Pantano ordered that the plastic flexicuffs binding the prisoners be cut, and he ordered them to search their own car.
Sgt. Coburn and Corpsman Gobles were ordered to take positions facing away from the car, and Lt. Pantano stood approximately 10 feet from it.
I believe that answers your questions.