Foreign Minister Penny Wong displayed visible frustration during a heated press conference in Canberra on Wednesday, sharply rebuking journalists who pressed her on Australia's potential involvement in military action against Iran. The atmosphere grew tense as reporters repeatedly questioned whether Australia would consider sending troops to the Middle East and whether US-Israeli strikes on Iran could be deemed unlawful under international law.
Wong Confirms No Troop Deployment, Avoids Legal Speculation
Wong firmly confirmed that Australia is not currently considering deploying troops to assist the United States in any conflict with Iran. However, she pointedly refused to engage in speculation regarding the legality of potential strikes, pushing back forcefully when interrupted by persistent questioning. 'Excuse me. Please. I am running this press conference,' she snapped on one occasion, raising her voice as journalists spoke over one another in the crowded room.
Iran Described as a 'Risk to Global Stability'
The Foreign Minister stressed that Australia is not privy to all international intelligence concerning Iran but made the government's position unequivocally clear. She stated that Australia supports all efforts to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and destabilising the region. 'It is important to note this did not begin with the current strikes,' Wong asserted. 'We support action to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and to prevent Iran from continuing to be a risk to global peace and security.'
Wong described Iran as a significant 'risk to global stability,' highlighting its recent aggressive actions across the Middle East. 'In the last few days, Iran has attacked no fewer than 10 countries, including states that are not participants in this conflict,' she revealed. 'Can I remind all of you: Iran has also engaged in attacks on Australian soil against Australians.'
References to Iranian Attacks on Australian Soil
The Minister referenced two specific Iranian state-directed attacks that occurred in Australia during 2024, both orchestrated via the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). In one incident, arsonists targeted Lewis Continental Kitchen, a kosher restaurant located in Sydney. In a separate attack, the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne was firebombed, resulting in one injury and causing up to $45 million in extensive damage.
ASIO, Australia's domestic security agency, concluded that both antisemitic attacks were directed by the Iranian government through local proxies. In response to these provocations, Australia expelled Iran's ambassador, suspended its Tehran embassy operations, and moved to formally list the IRGC as a terrorist organisation.
Wong Scolds Reporter Over Question Framing
When pressed once again on the legality of US-Israeli strikes, Wong scolded a reporter, telling them sternly: 'I would be careful about the framing of that question.' She emphasised the complexity of the situation and the need for precise language when discussing international conflicts and military actions.
Travel Warnings and Flight Disruptions
Wong urgently advised Australians currently in the Middle East to heed official travel warnings, noting that the government had issued 41 separate advisories before the latest escalation of tensions. 'What I would say to Australians is: please look at the travel advice. We are seeing something unprecedented in the Middle East,' she cautioned. 'What we're seeing now is affecting countries across the region, and it's why we see travel disrupted in 70 countries.'
She acknowledged the distress felt by Australians in the region as commercial flights have been cancelled or severely restricted, confirming that the government is actively exploring alternative evacuation options. 'I understand how difficult this is and how distressed people must be. We are doing everything we can to enable people to leave. There are difficult days now, and there will be difficult days ahead,' Wong stated sympathetically.
Focus on Commercial Flight Solutions
A commercial flight from Dubai to Sydney has now taken off and is expected to land late tonight, marking the first arrival from the region since services were widely disrupted. Wong emphasised that commercial flights remain the fastest and most efficient way to move large numbers of Australians out of the volatile region. 'That's why we are focusing on commercial options. The numbers are such that commercial means are the quickest way we can get people out,' she explained, outlining the logistical challenges facing the government.
