In 2022, the British government launched a public inquiry into the actions of U.K. special forces in Afghanistan during the years 2010 to 2013. During the proceedings, an anonymous testimony alleged that the special forces operated with what was described as “a golden pass,” effectively allowing them to carry out unlawful killings without consequence.
Under international law, and as defined by the United Nations, murder committed in the context of armed conflict is considered a war crime.
Former Afghan soldiers who might possess information relevant to the inquiry could potentially serve as witnesses if they were allowed entry into the United Kingdom. However, if they are not present in the country, they cannot be compelled to testify.
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence emphasized that evidence from any individual around the world can be submitted to the inquiry. “If any potential evidence is — or has been — uncovered by BBC Panorama, we would urge them to share it with the inquiry team and the police,” the spokesperson stated.
When asked about the status of former Afghan soldiers seeking resettlement in the U.K., the spokesperson added that all applications are assessed “on a case-by-case basis.” They reaffirmed the government’s commitment to honoring its promise to relocate and support eligible Afghans and their families.
Separately, a 2011 report by the BBC revealed that senior military officer Jenkins failed to refer evidence of alleged extrajudicial killings by British special forces to military police.
Since August 2024, Jenkins has served as a strategic adviser to U.K. Defence Minister John Healey. Healey, who recently held talks with his German counterpart in Berlin, appointed Jenkins as the head of the Royal Navy. He praised Jenkins as “a proven leader with a distinguished career in both the military and at the core of government.”
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