NATO has issued new military rules of engagement, which focus on reducing civilian deaths. The rules have been issued following an air strike in Afghanistan last week, which killed 90 people, 60 of which were children.

NATO commander in Afghanistan, General David McKiernan issued the order following an inquiry into air strike in the western district of Shindand. Video footage had emerged after the strike, showing the bodies of child victims.

The new rules of engagement focus on house searches and state that Afghan forces should go in first and permission should be sought from home owners.

NATO officials are concerned about the negative implications of civilian casualties and are seeking to prevent further undermining of foreign forces in combat zones.

By Daniel Garrun