Ben Roberts-Smith denies war crimes

The former SAS corporal faces five counts of murder involving unarmed civilians during his military service more than a decade ago.

In his first public comments since his arrest, Roberts-Smith expressed pride in his service and a determination to challenge the charges against him.

The case has sparked a significant national conversation about military accountability and the conduct of elite forces in conflict zones.

Legal experts suggest the upcoming trial will be one of the most high-profile and complex war crimes prosecutions in Australian history.