KABUL, Afghanistan - An Afghan-international security force conducted an operation targeting militants while pursuing an al-Qaida commander in a rural area of the Asmar District of Kunar province early March 13.
When the unit approached the compound they conducted a call-out for the militants to peacefully surrender. Shortly after the call-out, the joint force received fire from militants in a nearby compound.
The joint patrol returned fire killing six militants, all of whom were apparently foreign fighters. Initial reports are that a woman was also killed during the cross fire. A thorough, joint investigation is being conducted.
A search of the compound revealed several automatic rifles, rocket-propelled grenades, ammunition and a landmine.
ISAF takes every precaution to minimize civilian casualties.