Australia has suspended operations at its embassy in Tehran due to worsening security as Israel continues airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities. The escalating Israel-Iran air war, now in its second week, has left foreign diplomats at risk, prompting Australia to activate evacuation contingency plans.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong announced the deployment of Australian defence personnel and aircraft to the Middle East. She clarified that these forces will not be used for combat but are positioned to assist in evacuations once airspace becomes accessible. Wong stressed the volatile security climate in Iran and referenced past dangers faced by foreign officials during regional unrest.
Consular teams are being positioned in neighboring Azerbaijan, near border crossings, to support Australians attempting to leave Iran by land. Wong noted that this border offers the most viable exit route from Tehran. About 2,000 Australians and their families in Iran have sought government assistance to evacuate.
Australia’s ambassador to Iran, Ian McConville, will remain in the region to coordinate further response efforts. Wong also confirmed discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding the situation but emphasized that no request for Australian military involvement was made.
The conflict began when Israel launched preemptive airstrikes on Iran, citing concerns over potential nuclear weapons development. Iran has denied such ambitions and retaliated with its own attacks on Israeli targets. Tensions continue to rise as the international community monitors the potential for broader involvement, with U.S. President Donald Trump expected to decide within two weeks whether to intervene.
The Australian government is urging its citizens to register for assistance and make immediate plans to exit Iran as the situation deteriorates. The rapid escalation underscores growing instability in the Middle East and the risks faced by foreign nationals in conflict zones.