Australia has expressed strong support for the recent military action taken by the United States and Israel against Iran. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that Iran has been a “destabilising force” for decades, which warranted the response. The air and sea attacks were launched on Saturday morning local time, following a declaration by former President Donald Trump that the U.S. would no longer tolerate “mass terror.”
In a statement, Albanese highlighted Australia’s solidarity with the “brave people” of Iran who are fighting against oppression. He pointed out that for years, the Iranian regime has engaged in activities that threaten global stability, including its ballistic missile and nuclear programs, and support for armed proxies.
Albanese specifically referenced intelligence from the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO), which indicated that Iran had directed attacks within Australia in 2024. Notably, he mentioned the attacks on the Addas Israel synagogue in Melbourne in December and another incident in Sydney in October 2024. In response to these security threats, Australia expelled Iran’s Ambassador Ahmad Sadeghi and suspended operations at its embassy in Tehran.
Since these events, the Australian government has sanctioned over 200 individuals linked to Iran, including more than 100 affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Albanese emphasized that Australia, in collaboration with international partners such as the United States and the G7, has urged Iran to respect the human rights of its citizens. He stated, “These calls have gone unheeded,” citing the regime’s brutal crackdown on its own people, which has resulted in thousands of civilian deaths.
The Prime Minister reiterated Australia’s commitment to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, asserting that the country poses a significant threat to international peace and security. In light of the escalating situation, Australian authorities have advised citizens against traveling to Iran and urged those in the country to leave promptly, as consular assistance options are “extremely limited.” Travel advisories for Israel and Lebanon have also been elevated to “do not travel,” with Australians in those areas encouraged to depart as soon as possible.
Opposition Leader Angus Taylor added his comments regarding the attack on Iran, expressing his prayers for the Iranian people. He described the Iranian regime as authoritarian and antisemitic, citing its pursuit of nuclear weapons and involvement in terrorism through proxies like Hamas and Hezbollah. Taylor condemned the regime’s actions, stating, “Since 1979, the revolutionary Islamic government in Tehran has oppressed, imprisoned, and murdered Iranians.”
International reactions to the military action have emerged, with a spokesperson for the UK government declaring the nation’s ongoing support for efforts to prevent Iran from developing nuclear capabilities. The spokesperson noted that the UK’s priority is the safety of its nationals in the region, ensuring 24/7 consular assistance is available. Furthermore, the UK has bolstered its defensive capabilities in the Middle East and is prepared to protect its interests, emphasizing the desire to avoid further escalation into a broader regional conflict.
As the situation continues to unfold, global leaders remain focused on monitoring developments and maintaining diplomatic efforts to ensure stability in the region.
