US and Australia maintain security cooperation despite war crime allegations, says embassy review

The United States has ended a bilateral training review with Australia and found no need to suspend security cooperation despite allegations of war crimes by Australian special forces. The review was triggered by the Brereton inquiry report, which found “credible” evidence of 25 current or former Australian special forces personnel’s involvement in the unlawful killing of 39 individuals and the cruel treatment of two others in Afghanistan. The Leahy laws banned the US from training foreign security forces “where there is credible information implicating that unit in the commission of gross violations of human rights”.

The US embassy in Canberra stated that the Australian government’s actions to address the allegations, including Gen Angus Campbell’s revelation of the Brereton inquiry report triggering discussions between the two countries, had allayed any concerns. The embassy spokesperson insisted that defence and security ties between the two countries were “exceptionally close” and that “our defence and security cooperation is essential for security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.”

One army member’s employment arrangements were “adjusted” to alleviate US concerns, prompting Tasmanian senator Jacqui Lambie to accuse the US of “dictating” what would happen to Australian personnel. Campbell denied this, emphasizing that changes were made with “due care” to the individual’s “circumstances and opportunities and professional development”.

Despite the allegations, the US embassy pointed to continued cooperation between the two countries, including annual rotations of Marines to Darwin, “enhanced rotations” of US air force aircraft to Australia, and the Aukus partnership that included the UK. The embassy spokesperson confirmed that funding for bilateral security cooperation was never suspended, and training activities were not impacted by the review.

The US embassy review highlights the importance of maintaining defence and security cooperation between allies despite serious allegations. As tensions rise in the Indo-Pacific region, it is crucial for countries to work together towards regional security and stability. The Brereton inquiry report’s revelations of alleged war crimes underscore the importance of accountability and transparency in military operations. The bilateral review underscores the need for continued cooperation and dialogue between allies to address such issues and maintain trust and security in the region.