Blog Post

IAVA Statement on Zabol Incident
Posted by Michelle McCarthy on April 18 2012

IAVA released the following statement expressing outrage over images of U.S. troops posing with the remains of Afghan suicide bombers in Zabol, Afghanistan:

“Respect, honor and integrity are core to the U.S. Army’s values, and our entire military and veterans community is outraged by the vile conduct portrayed in these photos. IAVA supports an immediate investigation by the Department of Defense to ensure the service members involved in this incident are reprimanded for their actions. Earlier this month the spring offensive started in Afghanistan, and this appalling incident only heightens the stress and difficulties that our troops must face on the ground. In recent weeks, we have seen the tragic consequences that the actions of a few have had on the entire force. The safety of all our troops in Afghanistan and around the world must remain a paramount concern for all Americans,” said IAVA Founder and Executive Director Paul Rieckhoff.

“As the Army gathers the facts, we encourage the public and media to avoid mass-stereotypes of our troops or stringing isolated incidents together as a systemic problem in the force. Ten years into this war, our troops continue to serve honorably—thousands on multiple tours—in unimaginably tough conditions. Every American has an obligation to ensure that their exceptional service and leadership in Afghanistan and throughout the world is not tarnished by this one incident.”