Inquiry Reveals Allegations of Abuse by U.K. Special Forces in Afghanistan

A recent inquiry into the conduct of British special forces in Afghanistan has uncovered grave allegations of unlawful killings and a disturbing culture favoring body counts over ethics during military operations.

British special forces engaged in troubling methods during operations in Afghanistan, according to recent evidence presented by an official inquiry. Reports include shocking methods, such as the execution of unarmed individuals, with one officer recounting a chilling operation where a target was covered with a pillow before being shot. Testimonies indicate a prevailing strategy of treating all fighting-age males as threats, leading to indiscriminate killings.

The inquiry, initiated by the U.K.'s Ministry of Defense in 2022, aims to delve into claims of war crimes committed by British forces from 2010 to 2013. In 2023, officials confirmed these allegations specifically pointed to special forces. The released documentation, spanning hundreds of pages, encompasses emails, letters, and witness statements from both senior officers and the lower ranks, painting a grim picture of an elite military faction characterized by a problematic culture where soldiers felt empowered to act without accountability.

Witnesses described an environment that seemed "beyond reproach," suggesting that the lengthy military engagement in Afghanistan granted a "golden pass" that allowed for egregious behavior. Despite the gravity of the claims, the identities of the soldiers providing accounts have been kept confidential, and many documents have been heavily redacted to shield sensitive information regarding personnel and operations. The inquiry continues to be a focal point of public scrutiny as more evidence unfolds regarding British military conduct during the conflict.