On Monday, five US troops were killed in a friendly fire episode in Afghanistan.
Pentagon spokesman Rear Adm. John Kirby said the five American troops were killed "during a security operation in southern Afghanistan." The five Americans were special operations force members. They were killed during an operation of Afghan and NATO forces in the Arghandab district of southern Zabul province. Reports say that they were ambushed by the Taliban in southern Afghanistan. An investigation has been ordered since the event occurred.
"Investigators are looking into the likelihood that friendly fire was the cause. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of these fallen," Kirby said in a statement, according to the Associated Press.
Some are saying that the deaths happened mistakenly by a NATO airstrike. Officials say it is likely that the troops were killed after they requested air support to combat the enemy forces. NATO’s International Security Assistance Force also offered condolences to the family members of the troops. According to Fox News, NATO’s International Security Assistance Force said, “Our thoughts are with the families of those killed during this difficult time."