Canberra
Australia has sent military forces to the Middle East to support evacuation plans for its citizens amid rising conflict between Iran and Israel. Foreign Minister Penny Wong confirmed on Friday that Australian Defence Force (ADF) aircraft and personnel are now deployed to assist in safely removing citizens if airspace reopens.
“These assets are there to help Australians evacuate. They are not being sent for combat,” Wong clarified during a press briefing in South Australia.
In addition to military support, a crisis team from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) will be stationed in Azerbaijan. This team will assist citizens who manage to leave Iran without government help.
Currently, about 2,000 Australians in Iran and 1,200 in Israel have registered with DFAT requesting assistance. Wong urged anyone in Iran who can leave safely to do so immediately. For those who cannot leave, she advised them to shelter in place.
Earlier in the day, the government closed its embassy in Tehran, ordering all Australian staff and their families to depart due to the worsening security conditions. Wong stated that the ambassador to Iran will remain nearby to coordinate efforts, while DFAT personnel will help citizens at exit points like Azerbaijan.
“We’ve taken these steps based on security advice. We’re acting to protect Australians overseas,” Wong said.
In contrast, Italy announced it would keep its embassies open in both Tehran and Tel Aviv, while arranging charter flights to assist Italian nationals in leaving the region, according to Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani.
The Australian government continues to monitor the rapidly changing situation and has assured ongoing support for citizens stranded in the conflict zone.