Civilian Casualty Incident In July 2006

Civilian Casualty Incident In July 2006

Media reports in The Age and Sydney Morning Herald today refer to an incident in Afghanistan in July 2006, in which a civilian was killed.

The report alleges involvement by Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who were under the operational control of a US Commander as part of Operation Enduring Freedom.

This matter was investigated by US Coalition Command in Afghanistan in 2006 and the US officer found that no coalition forces were operating in the area described by Mr Khaliq.

On the basis of that investigation and an assessment derived from Australian operational records, the Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, advised the Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Senate Committee at Estimates in February 2007 that there was no substance to the allegations.

However, if any additional information or evidence comes to light, Defence would welcome it being forwarded and would act on that information appropriately.

The Australian Defence Force has strict Rules of Engagement designed to protect our troops, while ensuring that the actions of Australian forces are consistent with our obligations under Australian and international law in protecting the lives and property of the innocent.

Our Rules of Engagement are designed to avoid civilian casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure.

ENDS

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