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Why SAS troops used wrong rules of engagement
Feb 13, 2025
Ben McKelvey, a journalist and contributor to The Saturday Paper, dives deep into the controversies surrounding Australian Special Forces in Afghanistan. He reveals how SAS troops misapplied foreign rules of engagement, leading to tragic incidents, including the deaths of civilians. The conversation highlights the systemic failures within military oversight and the need for accountability. McKelvey also touches on the significant implications for the reputations and morale of the troops, calling for a Royal Commission to address these serious issues.
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Quick takeaways
- The Brereton inquiry revealed that Australian soldiers mistakenly used foreign rules of engagement, resulting in the deaths of unarmed Afghans.
- Misinterpretations of engagement criteria and a focus on kinetic operations have damaged the Australian Special Forces' reputation and capabilities.
Deep dives
Allegations of War Crimes and Operational Decisions in Afghanistan
Serious allegations of war crimes committed by Australian soldiers in Afghanistan emerged from the Brereton Inquiry, highlighting a critical aspect that went uninvestigated: the usage of inappropriate rules of engagement. Some Australian soldiers reportedly applied foreign rules of engagement they were not trained in, allowing for the lethal targeting of unarmed Afghans under the pretext of perceived hostile intent. This practice allegedly led to numerous deaths among civilians who posed no immediate threat, demonstrating a grave deviation from established combat directives. The inquiry raises questions about accountability and the ethical standards upheld during military operations.
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