Radio National Breakfast Trump administration accused of failing to protect civilians during Iran bombardment
Mar 12, 2026
Wes J. Bryant, retired US Air Force Master Sergeant who led civilian-harm and targeting advisory efforts at the Pentagon. He questions the thoroughness and transparency of the military probe. He explains how layered targeting checks should work. He argues modern capabilities should prevent mass civilian deaths and critiques the scrapping of casualty-reduction programs.
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Administration Lacks Transparency In Civilian Casualty Investigations
- The Trump administration shows minimal transparency and accountability in investigations of strikes that caused mass civilian casualties.
- Wes J. Bryant cites the April Yemen strikes and an investigation that disclosed only that an inquiry was opened, signaling a pattern of nondisclosure.
Multiple Targeting Safeguards Were Bypassed
- Targeting processes have multiple redundant checks intended to prevent mistakes, but those layers were reportedly bypassed in the school strike.
- Bryant explains DIA and NGA imagery should not be blindly prosecuted by Central Command without independent characterization and collateral damage assessment.
Official Rhetoric Undermines Credibility Of Investigations
- Public statements by officials and the president convey indifference and inconsistent narratives that undermine trust in investigations.
- Bryant and Bellingcat's Elliot Higgins note multiple conflicting official tales and a dismissive presidential response.