As US Drone Strikes Rise in Yemen, So Does Anger

[cratehorus]

While the United States acknowledges its drone program in Yemen, it does not confirm individual strikes or release information on how many have been carried out. Three prominent groups have been compiling data on strikes, mainly from news reports, including the AP's, based on reports by Yemeni security officials: the London-based Bureau for Investigative Journalism and the U.S.-based Long War Journal and the New America Foundation.

Their estimates on the number of U.S. airstrikes vary — from 44 to 67 since 2002, the majority of them by drones. Compiling accurate data has been even more difficult because until recently, the Yemeni military took responsibility for many strikes apparently carried out by the United States.

All three groups mark a dramatic escalation last year. The Long War Journal, for example, recorded 42 strikes in 2012, up from 10 the year before. The Associated Press has reported on nine strikes so far in 2013.

By comparison, the U.S. has carried out more than 330 airstrikes in Pakistan since 2004, though there the rate has been falling — from a peak of 117 strikes in 2010 to 46 in 2012, according to the Long War Journal's count.

Determining civilian deaths is even more difficult. The Long War Journal says it has confirmed 35 civilians and 193 militants killed by American strikes in 2012, up from six civilians and 10 militants the year before. This year, 31 militants and no civilians have been killed, according to its count. AP has reported 33 militants killed this year, with no confirmed civilian deaths.

C.I.A. director John Brennan says the strikes are only used as a last resort against suspects believed to be plotting against America.

http://abcnews.go.com/International/wire...r-19093818