The general would have been better advised to simply remain silent on the issue. It is not his place to comment on the behavior of an American civilian half a world away from his theater of operations, regardless of what effect it may or may not have. Such comments should be left to civilaian toadies in the State Department.
I agree with you, yet when the media wants to, they will seek one out. No comment would have been good, yet there may be someone ordering the General to speak, maybe.