Thu Sep 12 08:35:58 UTC 2024: ## Australian Government Strips Medals from Commanders Over War Crimes in Afghanistan

**Canberra, Australia** – In a move to address alleged war crimes committed by Australian forces in Afghanistan, the Defence Minister Richard Marles announced the stripping of medals from a small number of unit commanders. The decision affects commanders who served between 2005 and 2016 and was deemed necessary to address past wrongs.

The action comes following a damning inquiry that found Australian elite special forces unlawfully killed 39 civilians and prisoners during their 11-year deployment in Afghanistan. The report identified a disturbing sub-culture of elitism and deviation from acceptable standards within these units.

While the commanders being stripped of their awards may not have directly participated in the crimes, Minister Marles stated that there was an expectation for them to be aware of the misconduct happening within their units.

The inquiry recommended a slew of reforms, including the referral of 19 individuals to the Australian Federal Police. It also suggested compensation for the families of victims.

This latest development adds to the growing list of accusations against Australian special forces in Afghanistan. Since the official withdrawal of combat troops in 2013, numerous accounts of brutal conduct have emerged, leading to this official investigation and subsequent action.

Despite the seriousness of the allegations, the names of the commanders involved will not be released to protect their privacy.

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