Hegseth Cut Civilian Protections Over Objection of Top Commanders

Key Points:

• Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth attempted to cut the Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response (CHMR) program shortly after taking office in 2025, but all top military commanders opposed the move, emphasizing the program's importance in minimizing civilian casualties during operations.
• Despite commanders' protests, Hegseth significantly reduced CHMR staff and funding, even as U.S. military campaigns expanded in regions like Yemen, Somalia, and Iran, leading to high-profile civilian casualties and international criticism.
• The program, which was established to improve battlefield decision-making and reduce civilian harm, was described by military leaders as enhancing precision and operational effectiveness, with some commanders warning that its reduction increased risks of misidentification and collateral damage.
• Following deadly U.S. strikes in Iran and Yemen and mounting pressure from Congress and military officials, the Defense Department is considering partially reviving CHMR at reduced staffing levels, with plans to shift the program under the Joint Staff to improve inter-service collaboration.
• The CHMR program, though a small part of the Defense Department budget, is viewed by military leaders as critical to strategic success, as minimizing civilian casualties helps prevent insurgent recruitment and supports broader U.S. objectives in conflict zones.