MILF and other Moslem rebel factions are losing popularity in Moslem areas. The rebels are seen as more bandits than champions of Moslem rights. The army and police have developed tactics to use against the MILF that are less likely to antagonize the local Moslem civilians. One reason for bringing in American Special Forces troops is because the US specialists have long studied such operations and developed techniques that keep civilian losses down and the rebel groups put out of business quickly.