Former Australian Special Forces Officer Denies War Crimes Charges in Afghanistan
A former Australian special forces officer and medal winner has denied allegations that he committed war crimes during his service in Afghanistan.
Ben Robert Smith was arrested on April 17 at Sydney airport. He faces five counts of war crimes, specifically the murders of civilians. The alleged offenses took place between 2009 and 2012. Each charge could result in a life sentence if Smith is convicted. He was released on bail following the arrest.
In denying the charges, Smith stated that he had acted within the rules of engagement as well as in accordance with his training and the values he maintained while serving in Afghanistan.
The veteran also suggested that the charges are part of a broader effort against him. Smith claimed that he and his family have been targeted by a 10-year campaign to portray him as having behaved inappropriately in Afghanistan.
Support for the allegations emerged last week when one of Smith's comrades confirmed that he had committed war crimes by targeting civilians in the country.
The case has attracted the attention of Afghan lawyer Rohullah Sakizada. He stated that organizations defending people and the Afghan government have a duty to pursue the case in court due to crimes against Afghan civilians.
Know more about this story?
If you have additional information or believe something is inaccurate, let us know. Your tips help us stay accurate.
Sources (1)
More in International
UNDP Commits to Expanding Environmental Assistance to Afghanistan
Trump Threatens to Destroy Iranian Power Plants and Bridges if Agreement Rejected
1,000 Homes Destroyed, Thousands Displaced in Malaysia Fire
Turkish Foreign Minister Says Israel Is Exploiting War for Territorial Expansion
ReliableUNDP Commits to Expanding Environmental Assistance to Afghanistan
The head of Afghanistan's National Environmental Protection Agency met with UNDP representatives to discuss a national environmental report, two projects and the Jiyaf-9 conference. UNDP committed to expanding its assistance, with both sides stressing stronger cooperation on environmental challenges and opportunities.
ReliableTrump Threatens to Destroy Iranian Power Plants and Bridges if Agreement Rejected
US President Donald Trump threatened to destroy all power plants and bridges in Iran if it does not accept a US proposal he described as very fair and reasonable. The warning came ahead of talks in Islamabad as he accused Iran of violating a ceasefire by firing at ships in the Strait of Hormuz and claimed the country is losing five hundred million dollars daily.
Reliable1,000 Homes Destroyed, Thousands Displaced in Malaysia Fire
A major fire in Malaysia's Sabah state destroyed about 1,000 homes in a Sandakan coastal village, displacing thousands and affecting more than 9,000 people with no casualties reported. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced federal coordination for emergency aid and shelter.
ReliableTurkish Foreign Minister Says Israel Is Exploiting War for Territorial Expansion
At the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan accused Israel of exploiting the Middle East war for territorial expansion rather than security. Syria's president criticized Israeli attacks and advocated for a political solution.