They have attempted to protect civilians to the best of their ability.
But, he said, the government must do better to protect civilians.
The primary task for the organization was to protect civilians in case of war.
But coalition forces in recent years have also taken steps to protect civilians.
Some individual members of the religious community attempted to protect civilians, sometimes at great risk to themselves.
In extreme cases, the Americans may use their weapons to protect civilians, the officials added.
The French troops have been given a clear mandate to fight in order to protect civilians and themselves.
In a statement, the Government said that measures were being taken to protect civilians.
"I don't think this in any way is going to protect civilians."
The mission, the alliance says, is not to protect civilians.