What is your favorite rationalization for the U.S. drone killings of civilian non-combatants?

[Lurks Often]

35. Why are people arguing over the method?

If using the military is justified then innocent people are going to die, it has always been that way and it will continue to be that way for the foreseeable future.

As to the number of civilian casualties being reported, I don't believe I have seen a report by a neutral third party as to the actual numbers. Are the numbers higher then the US Government states, probably. Are they as high as the Pakistan, Afghanistan and Taliban are stating, probably not.

The AGM-114 Hellfire being carried by drones is a relatively small guided missile. Using artillery, cruise missiles or laser guided bombs, all of which have more explosive power would result in even more casualties.

As for using troops, aside from the increased risk of US casualties, there is a time factor. Using troops, they have to gear up, be briefed as to the situation, transported to the target area and deployed. It is highly probable that the target would have left the area before the troops could get there, even by helicopter. That does not take into consideration the higher political costs of US troops publicly operating in Pakistan.

If you want the drone attacks to stop, convince Congress to defund operations in Afghanistan