Australia Criticised Over Support for US-Israel Strikes on Iran – Legal Concerns Rise
Australia Backs US-Israel Strikes on Iran, Sparking Legal Debate
Canberra has voiced support for the recent military action taken by the United States and Israel against Iran, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from international law experts who argue the strikes constitute “illegal aggression.” Foreign Minister Penny Wong stated that “Australia supports action to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and to prevent Iran from continuing to threaten international peace and security.” This endorsement comes despite concerns raised about the legality of the attacks under international law and the potential for regional escalation.
What Happened?
The strikes, described as an attack that “decapitated its leadership,” were carried out by Israel and the US. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Minister Wong cited past attacks orchestrated by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) – specifically, incidents in Melbourne and Sydney in 2024, including the firebombing of the Adass Israel synagogue – as justification for supporting the bombing raids. Australia previously expelled Iran’s ambassador and designated the IRGC a state sponsor of terrorism in response to those 2024 attacks.
Legal Concerns and Expert Criticism
However, the justification provided by the Australian government has been challenged by leading international law experts. University of Sydney professor and United Nations special rapporteur Ben Saul argues that linking domestic criminal acts to military self-defense is flawed. He contends that the attacks represent a clear violation of the ban on the employ of force under the UN Charter, a cornerstone of the international order since 1945. Saul further stated that Australia’s support for the action is counterproductive, undermining the rules-based order and setting a dangerous precedent.
Professor Donald Rothwell of the Australian National University echoed these concerns, stating there was no basis under the UN Charter to justify the attack based on publicly available information. He noted the absence of a UN Security Council resolution authorizing the use of force.
Australia’s Position and Involvement
Whereas expressing support for the strikes, Foreign Minister Wong confirmed that Australia did not participate in “Operation Epic Fury” and was not given advance warning of the operation. She also declined to comment on whether Australian intelligence contributed to the operation, citing standard policy. The government is currently working to determine if any Australians have been affected by the attacks and has upgraded its travel advice, warning citizens not to travel to several countries in the region, including Israel, Lebanon, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.
Background: Australia-Iran Relations
Australia’s relationship with Iran has been strained in recent years. The expulsion of Iran’s ambassador and the designation of the IRGC as a terrorist organization in 2024 followed a series of incidents attributed to Iranian interference. These included the attacks in Melbourne and Sydney, which targeted Jewish communities. These actions were unprecedented steps taken by Australia in response to perceived threats from Iran. Prior to this, Australia had maintained a diplomatic presence in Tehran, with an embassy operating in the Iranian capital.
What Happens Next?
The Australian government is urging the resumption of dialogue and diplomacy between Iran, Israel, and the United States. However, the immediate outlook remains uncertain. The federal government is focused on assisting Australians in the region and monitoring the situation for further escalation. Details were not provided regarding specific diplomatic initiatives being undertaken by Australia. The long-term implications of the strikes for regional stability and the international rules-based order remain to be seen.
Confirmed vs. Unclear
Confirmed: Australia supports the US-Israel strikes on Iran. Australia did not participate in the strikes and was not given advance warning. Australia has expelled Iran’s ambassador and designated the IRGC as a terrorist organization. Travel advice has been upgraded for several countries in the region.
Unclear: The extent to which Australian intelligence may have contributed to the operation. Specific details regarding diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation. The number of Australians affected by the attacks.