For those not following, Australia’s most decorated soldier Ben Roberts-Smith has been arrested and charged with five counts of war crime murder over his alleged involvement in the deaths of Afghan nationals between 2009 and 2012. Ben is a war hero, and we know all-too-well war against an enemy who do not respect the rules of law is always difficult. He has always maintained his innocence, and deserves a fair trial.
As former Australian Prime Minister John Howard said:
“The arrest of Ben Roberts-Smith will tug at the heartstrings of millions of Australians.
The most decorated Australian serviceman alive, he is the honoured holder of the treasured Victoria Cross.
To some Australians, Roberts-Smith is the modern personification of the great Anzac tradition. That tradition is held dearer by our fellow Australians than any other in our proud history.
Having been charged, Roberts-Smith is entitled to the presumption of innocence. Australians will expect that his trial is conducted according to the best traditions of our justice system and as expeditiously as possible.
Ben Roberts-Smith is better known than most amongst the countless thousands of men and women who have served in the Australian Defence Force.
In the years that I was prime minister, it was my privilege to meet many of them; as a cohort of men and women, they were deeply impressive. Their welfare has remained in my prayers.
Our nation has been fortunate in having the enduring commitment of so many who were willing to devote their lives to the defence of Australian values, usually in circumstances beyond both the comprehension and experience of Australians living in ordinary civilian life.
One of those core values is the rule of law. This requires the fair trial of any accused person. Fundamental to the operation of the rule of law is that no man or woman is above or beyond its reach.
This is a difficult issue for many, as it tests to the limits not only our respect for Australian values, but the deep and special reverence we have for those who put their lives on the line to keep us safe.”
Someone who does not seem to care much about Australia, Australian values, or the sacrifices of Australian soldiers is Ahmed El Sayed Imam (aka Abarai Mido), the terror–supporting owner of Perth’s Sinamon cafe.
He has used the arrest of Ben Roberts-Smith to highlight his hatred for Australia and the Australian army:
Ahmed El Sayed Imam aka Abarai Mido, owner of @SinamonPerth, posted this to Instagram. Another example of how Israel-haters almost aways detest the Western countries in which they live, despite benefiting from all the freedoms afforded to them.
— David Lange (@Israellycool) April 10, 2026
Deport! pic.twitter.com/aseMxX4rLp
Remember, Ahmed El Sayed Imam lives in Australia, and has been afforded all the freedoms of living there. This includes benefiting materially, which is something he loves to show off.
Whatever the outcome of Ben Roberts-Smith’s trial, one thing should already be obvious.
Australia is a country governed by law, not mob justice. Even its most famous soldier is entitled to the presumption of innocence, a fair hearing, and due process.
Ahmed El Sayed Imam, meanwhile, seems to have nothing but contempt for the very country that has given him freedom, prosperity, and a platform from which to spew his bile.
That is the difference between a liberal democracy and the terror culture he appears so eager to glorify.
