SYDNEY, March 8 – The Australian government announced Sunday it is evaluating appeals for assistance from nations targeted by Iranian forces as the Middle East crisis continues to expand, while emphasizing it will not engage in any military actions within Iran.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong explained in broadcast comments that multiple non-participating countries have faced Iranian attacks. “You would anticipate as a consequence that we have been asked for assistance, and we will work through that carefully,” Wong stated.
The nation, which maintains strong ties with the United States, has previously declared it will not send military personnel to the Middle East should the situation escalate further.
When questioned about Australia’s potential role in defending nations against Iranian drone and missile strikes, Wong confirmed this was “correct.”
“We will work through that in accordance with the position that I have outlined, which is we are not participating in offensive action against Iran and we have made clear we will not participate in any ground troop deployment,” Wong explained.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese revealed Friday that three Australian military personnel were aboard a U.S. submarine when it destroyed an Iranian vessel using a torpedo in the Indian Ocean, though he emphasized they played no role in the assault.
The Middle East situation has intensified recently, with American and Israeli aircraft conducting strikes throughout Iran, while Iranian forces have bombarded numerous Gulf region cities, including locations in the UAE and Qatar.
Australia is currently coordinating with aviation companies to assist thousands of Australian citizens trapped in the Middle East region.
