Gung-ho US Troops Urged To Be More British

The Telegraph (UK) ^ | 5-3-2006 | Francis Harris

[blam]

Gung-ho US troops urged to be more British

By Francis Harris in Washington
(Filed: 03/05/2006)

A senior American general has ordered his troops to reduce the lethal force used against Iraqis, citing fears that trigger-happy behaviour is aggravating the insurgency.

Lt Gen Peter Chiarelli, who commands operations for the 132,000 American soldiers in the country, told his men to display more sensitivity and reach for their guns less often.

"We risk the chance of creating an insurgent, of creating somebody who gets so disgusted. . . that they get off the fence and go to the wrong side," he told the New York Times. "That has probably happened in many instances."

Gen Chiarelli is known as an apostle of the British approach to counter-insurgency warfare that is increasingly favoured by many in America's military.

On a previous tour in Iraq, he worked to win Iraqi hearts in Baghdad through involvement in projects such as the provision of water.

American troops in the most violent areas of Iraq face regular attack by suicide bombers and gunmen. Iraqis have complained that the Americans are too willing to open fire first and ask questions later.

Now the troops have been told to use lethal force as a last resort. They are being issued with new equipment, including the wider use of the bright flashing lights of stroboscopes at night to warn Iraqi divers (drivers?) of an approaching checkpoint. Troops will also use warning signs in Arabic rather than warning shots.

In a further attempt to aid troops and reduce Iraqi casualties, intelligence officers have identified signs in the behaviour of suicide bombers and other assailants. A list will be issued to combat troops patrolling towns and cities.

The general said: "What we are asking people to do is think through and talk through with soldiers. . . and ask, 'When should you apply deadly force?' "

To underline his point, Gen Chiarelli sent his subordinate commanders articles from British newspapers criticising the sometimes tough tactics used by American soldiers at roadblocks and when driving in convoy.

"I don't think it hurts us at all to take a look at it. . . It falls in line with what I am trying to do in urging a higher level of understanding and cultural sensitivity."

But some American officers have criticised the new approach, saying that it could create more casualties among their men.

More than 2,400 American soldiers have been killed in Iraq as well as an estimated 39,000 Iraqis. One officer told the New York Times: "The restrained approach, as it is manifesting itself on the ground, is beginning to handcuff our soldiers."

British officers have told their men to use a softer approach with Iraqis. Troops are encouraged to use the traditional Arab greetings and spurn sunglasses, which prevent eye contact.

[Lost Humanist]

Haha. I know, terrible isn't it?!!!

I spent some time studying in the US back in 2003. Dunkin' Donuts couldn't understand it either. Kept giving me 'creme'.....

[Lost Humanist]

"The Brits have not had to deal with Sunnis very much"

Very true, although I doubt much different from Al Sadr and his Iranian mates.

Valid point though.