Australia strips medals from commanders over Afghanistan war crime allegations

An investigation has recommended holding Australian military commanders accountable for alleged misconduct in Afghanistan between 2005 and 2016.

This follows a detailed report by Major General Paul Brereton, who identified serious allegations of war crimes committed by Australian special forces, reported by ABC News.

Defence Minister Richard Marles confirmed on Thursday that several serving and former Australian military commanders had their medals stripped following allegations from the Brereton Report.

The report revealed that about 25 troops from the Australian Special Air Service and Commando Regiments were involved in unlawful killings of 39 Afghans.

Mr. Marles described the allegations as “arguably the most serious allegations of Australian war crimes in our history.” He emphasized that the decision to remove medals was not a direct consequence of personal wrongdoing by the commanders but a reflection of their overall responsibility.

The removal of the medals has sparked controversy. Martin Hamilton-Smith, chairman of the Australian Special Air Service Association, condemned the decision as a betrayal of the soldiers’ bravery and sacrifice, arguing that the allegations are unproven and that commanders could not have been aware of every unlawful act committed.

Mr. Marles clarified that the medals were not revoked due to direct involvement or awareness of the misconduct. Instead, he explained that commanding officers are held accountable for their unit’s actions, regardless of their personal knowledge or presence at the scene.

No Australian veteran has been convicted of war crimes related to the Afghanistan conflict. In May, whistleblower David McBride was sentenced to nearly six years for leaking classified information.

In 2023, former SAS trooper Oliver Schulz was charged with a war crime for killing a noncombatant in 2012. Last year, findings suggested Ben Roberts-Smith likely unlawfully killed four Afghans, but he faces no criminal charges.

While no Australian veteran has been convicted of war crimes, ongoing investigations and legal actions highlight serious allegations and underscore the need for accountability and transparency in military conduct.

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