Afghan soldiers killed by international “friendly-fire”

As German troops paid a ceremonial tribute to two comrades killed in a suicide attack on Monday, allies in the Afghan army have become the latest victims.

This time however the Taliban is not claiming responsibility. The finger of blame is pointing at international forces.

The Afghan Defence Ministry says nine of its soldiers have been killed in a mistaken air strike in the southeast of the country overnight. The US military has confirmed a possible case of “mistaken identity.”

While such an incident is rare, it will add to Afghan anger following a series of errors by international forces that have claimed civilian lives. In August, dozens were reported dead in an air strike on a western village, sparking angry demonstrations by the local community.