"They never really were much of a threat"
That one may not work for them. They could raise the ire of brave families who have had the tragedy of the official military delegation arriving at their doors with sad news.
They could anger those who have survived IEDs, mortars and rockets going off a little too close. (I've personally experienced this one.)
They might want to reconsider if they decide to spin it that way.
But you're right; I wouldn't put it past the scumbags to try that.
When you really get down to it, journalism is just cheap talk. They don't have to be consistent, but they do have to (and want to attract attention.