Bill Speaks

“ Individuals detained by our forces are detained under the law of war, and are held when it is determined that they present a threat to our forces. We periodically review their cases to determine whether they continue to be a threat and warrant continued detention, or should either be released or turned over to the Afghan government for criminal prosecution. The reviews we do should not be construed as a criminal proceeding, and I would also emphasize that we have no interest in detaining individuals who are not a threat. ”

“ I can however confirm our forces do have permission to enter Afghan civilians' homes from the Afghan government and to track, detain and question persons who are legitimate military objectives. Our forces do attempt to obtain permission to enter a building before they do so by force, unless they must enter in self-defense or the tactical situation warrants entry. Our forces also, always, separate and safeguard women and children while detaining suspected militants or searching buildings. ”

“ When an individual is determined to not be a member of a hostile group or supporting such a group, the individual is released to a government official or at the point of capture. We have provided financial assistance to Afghans for property damage via the Foreign Claims Act or the Commander's Emergency Relief Program (CERP) . ”