Thu Sep 12 04:21:00 UTC 2024: ## Australian Defense Commanders Stripped of Medals Over Afghanistan War Crimes

**Sydney, Australia** – Australia has revoked the distinguished service medals of senior defense commanders in connection with alleged war crimes committed under their watch in Afghanistan. This decision, announced by Defence Minister Richard Marles on Thursday, follows the findings of the Brereton Report, a landmark inquiry released in 2020 which uncovered credible evidence of unlawful killings of 39 civilians by Australian soldiers.

Marles stated that while the majority of Australian personnel deployed to Afghanistan served honorably, the alleged wrongdoing constitutes a “matter of national shame.” He emphasized the government’s commitment to accountability, both domestically and internationally. While the exact number of officers affected remains undisclosed, local media reports suggest it is less than ten.

The decision does not affect those currently under investigation for individual war crimes, including Victoria Cross recipient Ben Roberts-Smith, who was found to have murdered four unarmed prisoners in a high-profile defamation case last year.

The Brereton Report concluded that while there was no evidence of higher-ranking officers being aware of the war crimes, commanders at the troop, squadron, and task group levels bear moral responsibility for the actions of those under their command. This conclusion has sparked debate amongst veterans, with some expressing resentment that senior officers have not publicly accepted responsibility for policies that contributed to the misconduct.

Opposition defense spokesman Andrew Hastie, a former SAS soldier, acknowledged the need to learn from this “tragic and bitter chapter” and called for both soldiers and leaders to actively seek and share the truth.

This development marks a significant step in Australia’s efforts to address the allegations of war crimes and underscores the importance of holding military leadership accountable for the conduct of their troops.

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