UK SAS Faces Legal Challenges in Anti-Terror Ops Against ISIS
- Veterans in the UK are pushing for changes to the ECHR's Article 2 to protect elite troops during high-risk missions.
- Concerns have been raised about the legal harassment faced by soldiers after their service, particularly regarding actions taken in Northern Ireland and Afghanistan.
- The campaign highlights the potential negative impact on recruitment and operational effectiveness for the military.
In the UK, veterans are advocating for the disapplication of Article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) from high-risk military operations. This campaign is driven by concerns that the legal framework is hindering elite troops, such as the SAS, in their fight against groups like Islamic State and Al Qaeda. Brigadier Aldwin Wight, a former SAS Commanding Officer, emphasized the need for political resolution to protect soldiers from ongoing legal harassment after their service. He highlighted the emotional toll on veterans who feel abandoned by the government and face legal challenges long after their missions. The SAS leadership has reported multiple cases against their troops, particularly regarding actions taken during the Northern Ireland conflict and operations in Afghanistan. The veterans argue that the current legal scrutiny undermines recruitment and operational effectiveness, as potential soldiers may be deterred by the prospect of facing legal repercussions for their actions in combat. The situation reflects a broader sentiment of frustration among veterans who believe their sacrifices are not adequately supported by the legal system or the government.