Ulster Unionist MP Jeffrey Donaldson has claimed there is a "hidden agenda" behind allegations made against Colonel Tim Collins.
The Lagan Valley MP attacked the motives behind two separate investigations into the Col Collins and the RIR, claiming they were meant to undermine the regiment and prepare for it to be disbanded or merged.
"My belief is that someone in the MoD and/or the army has jealous eyes on the Royal Irish Regiment and Col Collins," he said.
"They know that they cannot undermine the RIR unless they also undermine Colonel Collins. The two issues are inextricably linked.
The first investigation into Col Collins concentrates on allegations of war crimes after complaints were made about his conduct by a US army officer who worked alongside him in Iraq.
The second investigation is focused on the 'military environment' of the regiment under Col Collins's command.
One specific incident which is being investigated is circumstances surrounding the suicide of east-Belfast soldier Paul Cochrane in 2001.
