Australia Endorses US-Led Military Strike Against Iran
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has publicly declared Australia's support for the United States and Israel's coordinated air and sea attack on Iran, which occurred on Saturday morning local time, approximately 5.30pm AEDT. In a strongly worded statement, Albanese condemned the Iranian regime as a "destabilising force" for decades, citing its ballistic missile programs, nuclear ambitions, and support for armed proxies.
Justification Based on Security Threats
Albanese referenced specific incidents where Iran directed attacks on Australian soil in 2024, targeting the Jewish community in Melbourne and Sydney. These acts, he asserted, were intended to "create fear, divide our society, and challenge our sovereignty." In response, Australia took severe diplomatic measures, including:
- Expelling Iran's Ambassador, Ahmad Sadeghi
- Suspending operations at the Australian embassy in Tehran
- Listing the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a state sponsor of terrorism
He further noted that ASIO intelligence from August last year confirmed Iranian government involvement in these attacks, reinforcing the need for a firm stance.
International and Domestic Reactions
The military strike, described as a pre-emptive action, targeted around 30 sites in Tehran, primarily military installations and IRGC facilities. Albanese emphasised that Australia supports the US efforts to "prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon" and to curb threats to international peace. Opposition leader Angus Taylor echoed concerns, labelling the Iranian regime as "authoritarian, antisemitic, and abhorrent," and expressing prayers for the Iranian people amidst the conflict.
Other world leaders, including a UK government spokesperson, called for de-escalation while prioritising the safety of their nationals in the region. The UK reiterated its commitment to a negotiated solution to prevent nuclear proliferation.
Travel Advisories and Sanctions
In light of the escalating situation, Australian authorities have issued urgent travel warnings. Australians are advised not to travel to Iran and to leave immediately, as consular assistance is extremely limited. Additionally, travel advice for Israel and Lebanon has been upgraded to "do not travel," with similar recommendations to depart as soon as possible.
Albanese highlighted that the Australian government has sanctioned over 200 Iranian-linked individuals, including more than 100 associated with the IRGC. He criticised the regime's human rights record, stating it has instigated a brutal crackdown resulting in thousands of civilian deaths, thereby lacking legitimacy.
The Prime Minister concluded by reaffirming Australia's alignment with international partners, including the G7, in calling for Iran to uphold fundamental freedoms, a plea he said has gone unheeded.
