The Federal Court's judgment affirms that Ben Robert Smith committed war crimes, validating investigations by The Age and the Sydney Morning Herald. Justice Anthony Besanko's findings confirm Robert Smith's involvement in the execution of Afghans, breaching the Geneva Convention. This marks a crucial step towards justice for the victims' families. The judgment vindicates journalists Nick McKenzie and Chris Masters, who began reporting on this over seven years ago. It also underscores the importance of high-quality investigative journalism in a thriving democracy. The impact of these stories on the Australian Defense Force and soldier conduct in Afghanistan will be enduring. The responsibility for these atrocities extends beyond Ben Robert Smith, and further accountability efforts will continue. The judgment is a win for public interest journalism and a testament to the bravery of SAS soldiers who spoke the truth.
Sure, here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. Federal Court's judgment confirms that Ben Robert Smith committed war crimes.
2. Justice Anthony Basenko's findings state that Robert Smith participated in the execution of Afghans.
3. The judgment is a vindication for journalists Nick McKenzie and Chris Masters.
4. It is also a vindication for the newsrooms and organization that supported the journalism.
5. The judgment is a vindication for the brave Soldiers of the SAS who spoke the truth about what happened in Afghanistan.
6. The series of stories at the center of the trial will have a lasting impact on the Australian Defense Force.
7. The responsibility for these atrocities does not end with Ben Robert Smith.
8. High-quality investigative journalism is vital to a thriving democracy.
9. Nine's unequivocal backing of this reporting demonstrates its commitment to quality journalism.
10. The journalists express gratitude towards their legal team and colleagues for their support.
11. The judgment brings relief to the media and is seen as a day of justice for the brave SAS soldiers.
12. Ben Robert Smith is described as a liar, and the comparison to Lance Armstrong is made regarding his conduct in the Australian military.
13. Ben Robert Smith is urged to reflect on the pain he caused to the SAS soldiers who told the truth and the Afghan victims of his actions.