Operation Okra

Operation Okra was the Australian Defence Force's contribution to the United States-led Military intervention against ISIL, a multinational campaign against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant. Commencing on 31 August 2014, it involved military operations within both Iraq and Syria, primarily focused on airstrikes, special operations, and the training of local security forces. The mission concluded on 15 December 2023, marking the end of Australia's nine-year involvement in the conflict against the militant group.

Background and origins

The operation was launched in response to the rapid territorial gains made by Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant following its offensive in Northern Iraq in mid-2014, which threatened regional stability and international security. The Government of Australia, led by Prime Minister Tony Abbott, committed forces at the formal request of the Government of Iraq and in coordination with the International coalition against ISIL. This decision aligned with broader Australian national security interests and its commitment to the ANZUS Treaty with the United States, following similar commitments by allies like the United Kingdom and Canada.

Australian contribution and deployment

The Australian contribution was a joint task force headquartered at Al Minhad Air Base in the United Arab Emirates, under the operational command of the Australian Defence Headquarters in Canberra. Key elements included the Royal Australian Air Force, which deployed F/A-18F Super Hornets, E-7A Wedgetail AEW&C aircraft, and KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transports. The Australian Army deployed personnel from the Special Air Service Regiment and the 2nd Commando Regiment for advisory and assistance roles, while Royal Australian Navy officers served within the Combined Maritime Forces.

Operational history and key engagements

Initial operations focused on airstrikes in support of Iraqi Armed Forces ground operations, with the first combat missions flown over Iraq in October 2014. Operations expanded into Syria in September 2015 following a formal request from the Government of the United States. Key engagements included support for the Battle of Mosul, the Siege of Kobanî, and the Battle of Raqqa, where Australian Joint Terminal Attack Controllers embedded with local forces such as the Syrian Democratic Forces. The Special Air Service Regiment conducted numerous ground operations, including the 2015 raid on an ISIL compound in Syria.

Strategic impact and outcomes

The operation significantly degraded Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant's military capabilities and contributed to the liberation of major urban centers like Mosul and Raqqa. Australian aircraft conducted over 3,000 airstrikes, while training missions by the Australian Army's Task Group Taji enhanced the proficiency of the Iraqi Security Forces. The campaign supported the broader strategic objective of containing and ultimately rolling back the Caliphate declared by Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, facilitating a return to more stable governance in liberated areas.

Controversies and criticism

The operation faced scrutiny over the legal basis for airstrikes in Syria, with some legal experts and politicians questioning the alignment with United Nations Charter principles. Allegations of misconduct by elements of the Special Air Service Regiment, investigated by the Inspector-General of the Australian Defence Force Afghanistan Inquiry, also cast a shadow, though these were not directly related to conduct within this specific mission. Domestic criticism focused on the prolonged nature of the deployment, its financial cost, and the risks of Mission creep.

Conclusion and legacy

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the conclusion of the mission in 2023, stating its core objectives had been met. The withdrawal involved the repatriation of all remaining personnel and equipment from the Middle East. Operation Okra stands as one of Australia's longest continuous military engagements, reinforcing its commitment to Collective security alliances and demonstrating the evolving capabilities of the Australian Defence Force in combined air and special operations warfare. Its legacy is reflected in ongoing Australian support for regional stability through mechanisms like the Counter-ISIL Global Coalition.