James McGrath (Queensland, Liberal National Party, Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister) Share this | Hansard source

This motion is an unwarranted attack on a distinguished military leader, for which the Greens should be ashamed. Australian Defence Force personnel conduct themselves to the highest standards, in accordance with strict rules of engagement, designed to protect our forces and minimise civil injury, and act in accordance with domestic and international law. The Iraqi and coalition offensive to liberate Fallujah, in late 2004, was a tough, complex and hard-fought battle. The circumstances in which Australia committed forces to the coalition effort in Iraq are a matter of public record and have been subject to parliamentary inquiry. The Australian Defence Force operates under strict rules of engagement in accordance with domestic and international law.