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Foreign ministers

Australia Supports US Strike on Iran, Calls for Diplomacy

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong voiced support for the recent US strike on Iran's nuclear facilities, emphasizing the need for de-escalation and a return to diplomacy. Wong stated that Canberra supports the US action to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon, citing the significant number of Australians in Iran and Iraq who are seeking to leave. Australia has suspended bus evacuations from Israel and is preparing for potential evacuations if air space in Israel re-opens. New Zealand's Foreign Minister, Winston Peters, is examining the evidence surrounding Iran's nuclear enrichment program, while New Zealand's Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon, is calling for a return to dialogue.

Key Takeaways:

  • Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong expressed support for the US strike on Iran's nuclear facilities, citing the need for de-escalation and a return to diplomacy.
  • The US strike is aimed at preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, according to Wong.
  • There are approximately 2,900 Australians in Iran and 1,300 in Iraq who are seeking to leave.
  • Australia has suspended bus evacuations from Israel and is preparing for potential evacuations if air space in Israel re-opens.
  • New Zealand's Foreign Minister Winston Peters is reviewing the evidence surrounding Iran's nuclear enrichment program.
  • New Zealand's Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is calling for a return to dialogue with Iran.
  • Australia has sent two defense planes to the Middle East in non-combat roles to assist civilian evacuations.
  • Wong spoke with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and expressed support for the US action.
  • There is a growing concern for the safety of Australians in Iran and Iraq who are seeking to leave.

Statistics:

  • 2,900 Australians are in Iran and seeking to leave.
  • 1,300 Australians are in Iraq and seeking to leave.
  • Australia has sent 2 defense planes to the Middle East to assist civilian evacuations.

Sources:

  • Reuters in Sydney, June 23.
  • Radio New Zealand, June 18 (for New Zealand Prime Minister's statement).

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