The Daily A ‘Righteous Strike’
Sep 21, 2021
Matthieu Aikins, a seasoned journalist based in Afghanistan for The New York Times, delves into a harrowing U.S. drone strike that claimed the lives of ten civilians in Kabul. He reveals how the military's narrative fell apart under scrutiny, showcasing the emotional aftermath faced by grieving families. The discussion highlights the flawed intelligence that led to this tragedy and emphasizes the urgent need for independent investigations into military actions. Aikins sheds light on the broader implications of drone warfare and the human cost of such errors.
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The Scene of the Drone Strike
- After the Kabul airport bombing, Matthieu Aikins and Jim Huylebroek visited the drone strike site.
- They found a destroyed Toyota Corolla and distraught locals claiming 10 civilian deaths, including 7 children.
Zemari Ahmadi and His Family
- The car belonged to Zemari Ahmadi, who worked for an American aid company.
- His family explained that children usually greeted him when he parked, suggesting they died together in the strike.
Grief and Betrayal
- Aikins interviewed Zemari's female relatives, who were deeply distraught.
- His daughter expressed grief over losing her father and fiancé, who worked with Americans, highlighting their sense of betrayal.