Australia will deploy military assets to the Gulf region to assist countries defending against Iranian attacks. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Tuesday that the Royal Australian Air Force will send an E7A Wedgetail surveillance aircraft and supporting personnel for four weeks to protect airspace above the Gulf. The deployment follows a request from UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan during a phone call with Albanese.
Key Takeaways
Australia will deploy military assets to the Gulf region to assist countries defending against Iranian attacks. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the deployment of a surveillance aircraft and air-to-air missiles, emphasizing that these actions are purely defensive.
- Australia sends E7A Wedgetail surveillance aircraft to protect Gulf airspace for four weeks
- Advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles sent to the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- Deployment aims to defend against unprovoked Iranian attacks and protect 115,000 Australians in the Middle East
- Opposition Greens party criticizes move, fearing involvement in another 'forever war'
- Australia grants asylum to five members of Iran's women's football team
The prime minister emphasized that Australia's involvement is purely defensive, aimed at protecting 115,000 Australians living in the Middle East, including 24,000 in the UAE. 'Helping Australians means also helping the United Arab Emirates and other Gulf nations defend themselves against what are unprovoked attacks,' Albanese told reporters.
In addition to the surveillance aircraft, Australia will send advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles to the UAE. The prime minister stressed that these deployments are for defensive purposes only and that Australian troops will not be deployed on the ground in Iran.
The opposition Greens party criticized the move, with Senator Larissa Waters expressing concern that Australia could become embroiled in another US-led 'forever war.' She also condemned the support for a military that has been involved in controversial actions. Albanese responded by reiterating his government's commitment to defensive action only.
Separately, Albanese announced that five members of Iran's women's football team have been granted asylum in Australia. The women were issued humanitarian visas and moved to a safe location with the assistance of Australian Federal Police. 'Australians have been moved by the plight of these brave women,' Albanese said.
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