In a significant diplomatic escalation, the Australian government has formally summoned Iran's top diplomat in Canberra to condemn a recent aerial bombardment of the Iraqi capital.
The move comes after Iranian state media claimed responsibility for a missile strike on what it described as an Israeli Mossad "spy headquarters" in Baghdad's upscale Erbil neighbourhood. Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne labelled the attack "a reckless and indiscriminate escalation" that violated international law.
Regional Tensions Soar Following Bombardment
The attack, which utilised ballistic missiles, has sent shockwaves through the international community, further destabilising an already volatile region. While Iran justified its actions as a targeted operation against Israeli intelligence assets, the Australian government joined other Western nations in rejecting this justification.
"The strikes were a grave violation of Iraq's sovereignty and a threat to its security," a statement from Minister Payne's office read. The condemnation underscores Australia's firm stance against actions that threaten to inflame conflict in the Middle East.
Formal Diplomatic Rebuke in Canberra
The diplomatic response was swift and unambiguous. Iran's chargé d'affaires was summoned to receive Australia's formal protest. This high-level reprimand is a clear signal of Canberra's deepening concern over Iran's military ambitions and its willingness to project power across the region.
Australia's criticism aligns with a broader international chorus of disapproval, highlighting the global alarm at Iran's provocative actions and the potential for a dangerous escalation of hostilities.
