Quote from CaptainObvious:
Yes it was a combat mission, and slaughter is what war is all about. Sorry to break that to you, but it is what it is.
At 3:39 - 3:52 during the vid, the guys center screen were clearly carrying weapons in a combat zone. They were obviously hostile forces. The order of the day is seek out and engage the enemy. That's what happened.
As to the reporters. If you're going to embed yourself with the enemy, enemy being a relative term, then don't be surprised if you get shot at. That goes the same for those that embed themselves with our troops. Everyone is fair game.
Shooting the van and the occupants. Again, clearly it was a combat zone. If you're going to drive around with your kid in the van during such operations, well, war is hell and shit will happen. Clearly the gunship pilot had no idea a kid was in the van. What should be noted is how quickly and compassionatly our troops gave aid to that child.
The video illustrates why we should take great pause before engaging in war with political adversaries. When the shooting starts there is no such thing as collateral damage. Least not if you're intending to win. We're not, so shit like this is a big deal, when in reality, it's just another day in the hell of war. Don't have the stomach for it, then don't go to war.