The piece traces a recurring pattern in U.S. military history, beginning with the 1968 My Mỹ massacre in Vietnam and extending to recent civilian deaths in Afghanistan and Iraq. It argues that American officials frequently first deny involvement in such incidents, only to later issue muted acknowledgments or limited apologies after evidence mounts. By juxtaposing archival footage, survivor testimonies, and official statements, the article examines how these denials shape public perception and accountability. The analysis also explores the political and strategic reasons behind the reluctance to own up to civilian casualties, suggesting that the cycle of denial and delayed acknowledgment continues to affect U.S. foreign policy and its credibility abroad.
From My Lai to civilian killings in Afghanistan, Iraq, the US has often denied role before later quietly acknowledging.
