Australia will strip medals from fewer than ten commanders whose units were involved in alleged war crimes in Afghanistan between 2005 and 2016. Defense Minister Richard Marles announced the decision, aiming to address “wrongs of the past.”
An inquiry in 2020 found that 39 civilians and prisoners were unlawfully killed by elite Australian forces, revealing a culture of elitism and misconduct. Most of the inquiry’s recommendations have been adopted, including a medal review and compensation.
The commanders, whose names remain private, may not have been aware of the crimes, but were expected to know. Veteran groups have voiced concerns, citing the mental strain on those affected.
Australia deployed over 26,000 personnel to Afghanistan after the 9/11 attacks to support U.S. and allied forces. Combat troops withdrew in 2013, but accounts of misconduct by special forces units have continued to surface since then. Marles reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to accountability and reforming the defense force culture.
