Connect with us

Latest News

Former Australian soldier denies Afghan war crimes allegations

Speaking to media on Queensland’s Gold Coast on Sunday, he said he had always acted within the rules of engagement.

Published

on

Ben Roberts-Smith, a former Australian Defence Force soldier, has publicly denied war crimes allegations linked to his service in Afghanistan, saying he is determined to clear his name.

Roberts-Smith, 47, who served with the elite Special Air Service (SAS), was released on bail this week after being charged with five counts of war crimes. The charges relate to the alleged killing of five unarmed Afghan civilians between 2009 and 2012. Each count carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

Speaking to media on Queensland’s Gold Coast on Sunday, he said he had always acted within the rules of engagement.

“I categorically deny all of these allegations,” Roberts-Smith said. “While I would have preferred these charges not be brought, I will be taking this opportunity to finally clear my name. I’m proud of my service in Afghanistan.”

Prosecutors allege the victims were detained, unarmed and under the control of Australian forces at the time of their deaths, and were not participating in hostilities. They opposed bail, citing concerns he could contact witnesses.

A judge granted bail after noting the case may take years to reach trial, following more than a week in custody.

The allegations first emerged in 2018 through investigative reporting by Australian media. In 2023, Roberts-Smith lost a defamation case, with a court finding on the balance of probabilities that he was involved in the killing of four Afghan civilians.

The case is ongoing.

Latest News

Aid agencies launch operation to assist conflict-affected communities in Nuristan

Humanitarian agencies said they are continuing to work closely with local communities to ensure aid reaches those most in need.

Published

on

Humanitarian organisations have begun a multi-day operation to deliver urgently needed assistance to communities in eastern Nuristan Province, where ongoing conflict has left thousands without access to basic services for more than six weeks.

The effort is being coordinated by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the Afghan Red Crescent Society (ARCS) and the World Food Programme (WFP), working together to reach previously inaccessible areas.

According to humanitarian agencies, around 136,000 people — representing roughly 17,000 households — in the districts of Kamdesh District and Barg-e-Matal District have faced severe shortages of food, healthcare and essential household items due to insecurity and restricted access over the past two months.

Since early April, aid organisations have engaged in ongoing dialogue with all parties to the conflict to secure safe and unimpeded access for neutral humanitarian operations. Following these discussions, delivery of assistance has now begun.

Initial efforts are focused on distributing food, medical supplies and other essential relief items. The reopening of access routes into Nuristan has also allowed markets to gradually restock, while medical evacuations have resumed.

Humanitarian agencies said they are continuing to work closely with local communities to ensure aid reaches those most in need. Early assessments indicate that significant needs remain, particularly in food security, healthcare and basic services.

The organisations involved reaffirmed their commitment to operating under principles of neutrality, independence and impartiality, and called for continued cooperation from all parties to ensure sustained access to vulnerable populations.

Continue Reading

International Sports

IPL 2026: Mumbai Indians crush Gujarat Titans by 99 runs

The match was defined by a sensational innings from Tilak Varma, who struck an unbeaten 101 off just 45 deliveries to power Mumbai to a commanding total.

Published

on

Mumbai Indians returned to winning ways in emphatic fashion on Monday, defeating Gujarat Titans by 99 runs in a dominant Indian Premier League encounter at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

The match was defined by a sensational innings from Tilak Varma, who struck an unbeaten 101 off just 45 deliveries to power Mumbai to a commanding total. The left-hander’s maiden IPL century came at a crucial time for his side, lifting them out of a recent slump with a display of clean, aggressive hitting that dismantled the Gujarat bowling attack.

After a steady start, Varma accelerated sharply through the middle and death overs, finding boundaries with ease and maintaining a high strike rate to push Mumbai well beyond Gujarat’s reach.

In reply, Gujarat Titans faltered under scoreboard pressure. Their batting lineup failed to build partnerships as Mumbai’s bowlers tightened control early on. Ashwani Kumar led the charge with the ball, claiming four wickets in a disciplined spell that ensured the hosts never threatened the target.

Gujarat were eventually bowled out well short, handing Mumbai one of their most convincing wins of the season and snapping a four-match losing streak.

The result provides a timely boost for Mumbai Indians as the tournament enters a critical phase, while Gujarat Titans will be left searching for answers after a heavy defeat on home soil.

Attention now turns to Tuesday’s IPL fixture, where Sunrisers Hyderabad take on Delhi Capitals. Hyderabad will be aiming to continue their strong run of form, while Delhi are looking to secure an important victory to improve their standing in the competition.

All IPL matches are being broadcast live and exclusively in Afghanistan on Ariana Television, providing fans nationwide with comprehensive coverage of the tournament.

Continue Reading

Latest News

Robat Paryan railway station nearing completion, says Herat governor

Published

on

Noor Ahmad Islamjar has said construction of the Robat Paryan railway station in Herat Province is progressing steadily and is expected to be completed in the near future.

During an inspection of operations along the Khaf–Herat railway line, the governor visited the Robat Paryan station project and reviewed work across different sections, according to a statement from his office.

Islamjar provided guidance to project officials and called for efforts to accelerate implementation, the statement said.

He noted that the station is being built to international standards and added that, once completed, the railway line will be extended to Robat Paryan.

Project officials, meanwhile, said work is being expedited and expressed confidence that the station will soon become operational.

Continue Reading
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

Trending

Copyright © 2025 Ariana News. All rights reserved!