The Pentagon has dismantled a program it is legally required to operate for preventing and responding to civilian deaths in U.S. military operations, according to a report from the Department of Defense Inspector General.

The internal watchdog found that the U.S. military no longer maintains the personnel, tools, or infrastructure needed to comply with two federal statutes requiring a functioning civilian casualty policy and operation of a Civilian Protection Center of Excellence.

The findings come amid broader concerns about military safety protocols. A defense specialist has raised warnings about potential safety risks in the Pentagon's efforts to counter drone threats, according to a memo describing an incident where a mini-drone detonated and injured an Army Special Forces soldier.

Separately, Admiral Brad Cooper, a top U.S. commander, addressed reports of civilian casualties, stating that a strike on an Iranian school may have been the only civilian casualty incident in recent military operations.

The inspector general's report highlights gaps in the military's compliance with congressional mandates designed to minimize harm to non-combatants during overseas operations. The dismantling of the required program raises questions about the Pentagon's ability to track, prevent, and respond to civilian casualties in current and future military engagements.