Australia Strips Medals from Military Commanders Over Alleged War Crimes in Afghanistan

Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles has taken action to address alleged war crimes committed by Australian Defense Force personnel in Afghanistan. Following the 2020 Brereton Report, which found credible evidence of the unlawful killing of 39 prisoners and civilians, Marles has notified potentially affected individuals and announced that a small number of officers will have their distinguished service medals cancelled. The exact number of officers affected is unclear, with local media reporting it to be less than 10. The decision comes after an official inquiry revealed that Australian special forces were involved in the unlawful killing of 39 civilians and prisoners over an 11-year period.