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Starmer’s War Crimes Case Sparks Controversy Over Troops

1/28/2026

46 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Sir Keir Starmer led a 2007 pro bono case with Lord Hermer and Phil Shiner enabling pursuing British soldiers for alleged war crimes.
The case changed the legal framework for troops in war zones.
The Ministry of Defence ordered new inquiries into deaths in Iraq, prompting costly investigations.
Johnny Mercer, former veterans minister, criticized Starmer, calling it a "witch hunt" against British troops.

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Story summary

Sir Keir Starmer led a 2007 pro bono case with Lord Hermer and Phil Shiner enabling pursuing British soldiers for alleged war crimes.
The case changed the legal framework for troops in war zones.
The Ministry of Defence ordered new inquiries into deaths in Iraq, prompting costly investigations.
Johnny Mercer, former veterans minister, criticized Starmer, calling it a "witch hunt" against British troops.