What is the primary focus of Special Operations targeting?

The primary focus of Special Operations targeting is to eliminate threats while minimizing collateral damage. This approach underscores the unique nature of Special Operations forces, which often operate in complex, sensitive environments where civilian presence may be high. The objective is to ensure that military actions achieve strategic goals—such as neutralizing enemy combatants or dismantling terrorist networks—without causing unnecessary harm to non-combatants or surrounding infrastructure. This capability is particularly crucial in modern warfare, where maintaining the support of the local population and adhering to the principles of proportionality and distinction are essential for mission success and long-term stability in the area of operations.

While capturing hostages, gathering intelligence, and conducting training missions are also important components of Special Operations, they are not the primary focus of targeting. Targeting specifically emphasizes the precise execution of military operations to neutralize threats efficiently while safeguarding innocent lives, which aligns with broader U.S. military objectives and the ethical considerations inherent in modern conflict.