In a recent investigative report by the American magazine The New Yorker , information was provided regarding war crimes committed by U.S. forces in Afghanistan and Iraq. The report states that since September 11, 2001, numerous war crimes have occurred, but the U.S. judicial system has not taken serious action in this regard. The report reveals that out of 781 cases involving approximately 1,800 victims, 60% were dismissed and not classified as war crimes. This is a deeply concerning fact, as no justice has been served in these cases.
The report highlights that many of the forces who committed war crimes in Afghanistan, upon returning to the U.S., would share stories of killing civilians and prisoners with friends, family, and healthcare workers in private gatherings. According to the report, military investigators often stated that there was insufficient evidence to substantiate these claims. As a result, many of these crimes were ignored.
The report indicates that a total of 151 cases were classified as war crimes, involving 572 individuals, but only 130 of them received minimal punishment. Of these cases, 30 occurred in Afghanistan. In addition to U.S. forces, Australian and British special forces were also accused of committing war crimes in Afghanistan. Recently, Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles revoked service medals from commanders accused of war crimes and warned of their possible prosecution.
The lack of justice and the dismissal of these crimes not only violate international laws but also trample on the rights of the victims. It is a serious need that international courts fulfill their responsibility regarding the war crimes committed in Afghanistan and prosecute those involved. The perpetrators of these crimes, whether American, Australian, or British forces, must be brought to justice.
Afghanistan must take a firm stance on this matter and call on the international community to ensure justice for these war crimes. This issue is not limited to Afghanistan and Iraq alone, but is a significant part of global human rights and legal standards. If this matter is neglected, it will send a dangerous message to the world that war crimes can go unpunished.
In this regard, the Afghan caretaker government must treat this issue with seriousness in both its domestic and international stance and demand justice for the war crimes committed. The prosecution of war crimes is not only the right of the victims but also a guarantee of peace and stability for the future. Punishing the perpetrators of these crimes will send a clear message that no forces are above the law and justice.
The New Yorker report presents a serious issue regarding war crimes that Afghanistan must investigate thoroughly and demand justice for. This is not only Afghanistan’s right but also the obligation of the international community to move forward with full justice and responsibility in this matter.
