Today’s Defence news includes coverage of the Iraq Historic Allegations Team (IHAT) and Operation Northmoor.
IHAT and Operation Northmoor
There is continued interest in investigations into alleged battlefield crimes by British soldiers. TheDaily Mail, The Mirror and The Sun have all reported that, backed by a law firm, hundreds of British soldiers may ‘go to war’ with the MOD over court action related to incidents in the Iraq war.
An MOD spokesperson said:
"We are committed to providing legal advice and welfare support for both current and former personnel with all of those interviewed after caution in IHAT investigations receiving publicly-funded legal advice and assistance. Our policy is always under review to ensure that we provide the right levels of support."
There is also stories in The Telegraph, The Times, The Mirror and on the BBC Radio 4 Today Programme about Afghanistan veterans who may be investigated for similar allegations.
An MOD spokesperson said:
“Our armed forces are rightly held to the highest standards and, whilst rare, credible claims of criminal behaviour should be investigated. An independent investigation is the best way to make sure that innocent personnel are not dragged through the courts without cause. Since this investigation began over two year ago, none of the op Northmoor allegations investigated have been referred to the Service Prosecution Authority.”
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