Justifying or downplaying war crimes by NATO rebels in Libya

"The rebels have certainly acted wrongfully against some civilians, though most human-rights groups say their abuses pale beside the attacks on civilians by the regime."  Why is it necessary to add that "most human rights groups say their abuses pales besides the attacks on civilians by the regime."  This is like reporting on human rights abuses by any present-day regime and then adding: but their abuses pale besides the attacks by Hitler's army.  How ridiculous.  (thanks Khelil)