Despite evidence of civilian casualties in a 2018 drone strike in Somalia, the Pentagon failed to compensate the victims, highlighting a systemic issue in addressing civilian harm.
BY GUEST ESSAY:
The Pentagon’s recent report on civilian casualties resulting from U.S. military operations has drawn criticism for its failure to compensate victims, including a 22-year-old woman and her 4-year-old daughter killed in a 2018 drone strike in Somalia. Despite acknowledging their deaths, the Pentagon has yet to offer any form of compensation to the family.
The April 1, 2018 attack in Somalia claimed the lives of at least three civilians, including Luul Dahir Mohamed and her daughter Mariam Shilow Muse. Despite efforts by the family to contact the U.S. government and seek redress, they have received no response or acknowledgment of responsibility.
Annie Shiel, U.S. advocacy director at the Center for Civilians in Conflict, expressed disappointment at the Pentagon’s inaction, emphasizing the need for accountability and justice for civilian victims. The failure to compensate victims, despite significant funding allocated by Congress, underscores systemic issues in addressing civilian harm.
The Pentagon’s report, issued almost a year after its deadline, also highlights broader concerns about transparency and accountability in U.S. military operations. Despite claims of minimal civilian casualties, independent monitoring groups suggest a much higher toll, raising questions about the accuracy of official figures.
Efforts to improve the Pentagon’s response to civilian harm, such as the Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan, have been criticized for their lack of effectiveness. Despite congressional appropriations for compensation payments, the Pentagon has shown reluctance to acknowledge its mistakes and provide restitution to victims.
Calls from elected officials and human rights organizations for compensation to be made to victims of U.S. attacks, including Luul and Mariam’s family, have yet to be heeded. The Defense Department’s failure to meet deadlines for releasing civilian casualty reports further undermines transparency and accountability in military operations.
As the U.S. continues its military engagements around the world, addressing civilian harm must be a priority. Without meaningful accountability and restitution for victims, the cycle of violence and suffering is likely to persist, undermining efforts to promote peace and stability.
