By KUNA,
London : The British military death toll in Afghanistan and Iraq hit 300 when two Royal Marines were killed in an explosion in Helmand province yesterday, the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) confirmed Thursday.
The deaths bring the total killed in Afghanistan to 124, while 176 have died on active service in Iraq since operations began.
The marines were taking part in a joint patrol with soldiers from Afghan security forces when their vehicle was struck by an explosive device in the Garmsir district of southern Helmand.
Following the 300th death, an MoD spokesman said “Every death is a tragedy and we owe each of them a debt of gratitude.” “These most recent sacrifices demonstrate how important our role is in Afghanistan, fighting terrorism and helping to bring security and stability to the country. It is vital to our own interests here in the UK that we continue with this and we will not allow their sacrifice to be in vain.”
“The UK is committed to maintaining troops in Afghanistan until the government of Afghanistan has built sufficient capacity to maintain a stable security situation and the rule of law.” But he added “We need to do more to explain to the UK public why it’s so important that the UK continues to support the government of Afghanistan and the international presence in Afghanistan.” British Prime Minister Gordon Brown’s official spokesman said “It is important I think to remember – particularly this week, when we have been remembering the contribution made across generations by our armed forces, in particular, the ongoing commitment of our soldiers, sailors and airmen in Afghanistan and in Iraq and the contribution they are making to our security.” More than 5,400 people, including nearly 1,000 civilians, have died in insurgency-related violence this year in Afghanistan, according to figures provided by Afghan and international officials.