This was standard when I was in Iraq during the surge, don’t now why the general had to give this order. You never, Never leave the guard unposted when near anyone who does not have a US flag on their shoulder.
My company CO had a favorite order/saying..... Always have a plan to kill anyone you meet while in country.
A co 3-21 Inf
Lol.... know.... Yep I did not spell check :)