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

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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.

    1. Yet, in his response, he still managed to forget one key thing: the accountability of the top brass.
    1. From Tarin Kowt to Kabul to Kandahar to Dubai to Canberra, those in the chain of command should have asked more questions.
    2. Our soldiers must tell the truth and those in leadership must seek it out. If both our soldiers and our leaders had done so, we might not be in this place today.
    3. I believe that our troops were let down by a lack of moral courage that went up the chain of command all the way to Canberra – including in this House.
    1. At the same time... [this is] a demonstration to the Australian people and to the world, that Australia is a country which holds itself accountable.
    2. My decisions on this matter are consistent with the findings and recommendations of the Brereton Report. In accordance with obligations owed to individuals involved, including under the Privacy Act, I am prohibited from disclosing the details and outcomes.
    3. This will always be a matter of national shame.
    4. Bar the actions of a few, they undertook their service with professionalism, honour and integrity. They should be proud of their contribution and we are proud of them.
Australia Strips Medals from Military Commanders Over Alleged War Crimes in Afghanistan