Karzai criticizes U.S. for civilian deaths

KABUL, Afghanistan, Aug. 23 (UPI) -- Afghan President Hamid Karzai blamed U.S. forces Saturday for civilian deaths in his country's western region.

Karzai said an investigation was under way into the deaths of about 70 people, allegedly at the hands of U.S. troops, in Herat, the BBC reported. He also promised a "comprehensive plan to prevent civilian casualties" would be prepared and given to U.S. military commanders.

Also Saturday, the U.S. military reported the Taliban had killed 14 civilians, while losing 17 of its own fighters in clashes with NATO forces, CNN reported.

The number of people killed Friday by the airstrike in Herat province is in dispute, CNN said. An Afghan police official put the civilian toll at 90, Karzai at 70 and the Afghan Independent Human Rights Commission at 78, including women and children.

A statement by the coalition headed by the United States said it is "aware" of allegations of civilian deaths.