The latest attack comes amidst reports major U.S. military firms are lobbying the government to loosen restrictions and open up foreign markets to U.S.-made drones. According to the Los Angeles Times, companies, including Northrop Grumman, have waged an effort for the United States to drop its obligations under the 1987 Missile Technology Control Regime, which limits the sale of pilotless aircraft. Democratic Rep. Howard Berman of California says the Obama administration will roll back export rules on technology sales to foreign countries, and he expects drones to be covered. According to recent estimates, drone spending across the globe is expected to almost double over the next decade, hitting $11.4 billion in 2022. Speaking recently before the U.N. Human Rights Council, the U.N.'s top human rights official, Navi Pillay, raised concerns about the drones' legality.

Navi Pillay: “It is unclear that all persons targeted are combatants or directly participating in hostilities. I remind states of their international obligation to take all necessary precautions to ensure that the use of drones comply with international law. I urge them to conduct investigations that are transparent, credible and independent, and to provide victims with effective remedies.”