The new version does indeed seem better, though the second part of the post seems less clear and perhaps overly general now-- I'm extremely confident that violence is applied in at least some cases primarily to help others.

"...a occupying force cares a little bit less than one might first assume"

I don't mean to be overly critical of your imprecise language, but in this context I think it is important to note that a "force" does not care at all. More to the point, a military force comprises individuals who hold a whole range of opinions and who may act in ways that are contrary to those opinions.