Marise Payne (NSW, Liberal Party, Minister for Defence) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator Fawcett very much for his question. The Iraqi security forces are making steady progress in the campaign to retake west Mosul, but it is a very difficult operation which is made more complex by the dense urban environment and, frankly, the desperate actions of Daesh. Daesh's actions have further complicated the operating environment in west Mosul and heightened the risk to civilians. Daesh's desperate tactics, for which they have been condemned by the Iraqi government, include trapping residents in their own homes to prevent them from leaving the city and using them as human shields. Ground forces remain under direct attack from Daesh fighters, who continue to threaten the civilian population and are absolutely determined to maintain their hold over the city. Coalition air support remains necessary to enable the Iraqi security forces, including the Iraqi Counter Terrorism Service, to clear Daesh out of Mosul.

All Australian defence personnel operate under strict rules of engagement designed to protect our forces, minimise the risk to civilians and comply with Australia's obligations under international law. Prior to any air strike, the Australian Air Task Group undertakes a detailed and robust process that includes approvals from both Australian and Iraqi authorities. I am aware of allegations that a coalition air strike in west Mosul on 17 March resulted in civilian casualties. Based on the information that is currently available to us, I am advised that Australian strike aircraft were not involved in the air strike in question. As you will appreciate, it takes time to fully determine the details of a complex incident like this involving multiple aircraft from multiple nations. The ADF takes all allegations of civilian casualties seriously. If an allegation is raised following an ATG strike, the matter is investigated and the findings are reported.