Australia is facing criticism from international law experts for supporting recent attacks by Israel and the United States on Iran. Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong stated Australia supports action to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and threatening international peace and security.
Criticism of Australia’s Support
Experts argue Australia has “rolled over” and backed an illegal attack. University of Sydney professor and United Nations special rapporteur Ben Saul said the attack was “clearly a violation of the ban on the use of force under the UN charter and international law.” He emphasized that domestic criminal acts, such as those allegedly orchestrated by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRCG), do not justify military self-defense against Iran.
Donald Rothwell, a professor of international law at the Australian National University, stated there was no basis under the UN charter for the attack on Iran based on publicly available information. He noted the need for a clearer statement from Australia regarding its views.
Justification for the Attacks
Wong and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese cited attacks in Melbourne and Sydney in 2024, allegedly orchestrated by the IRCG, as justification for the bombing raids. Australia expelled Iran’s ambassador and designated the IRCG a state sponsor of terrorism following the 2024 antisemitic attacks, which included the firebombing of the Adass Israel synagogue.
Wong stated Iran has been a destabilizing force in the region for decades and has orchestrated attacks on Australia. Albanese added that Iran’s nuclear program and development of ballistic missiles pose a threat to global peace and security.
Concerns Over Foreign Policy and US Involvement
David Shoebridge, the Greens’ foreign affairs spokesperson, accused the Albanese government of outsourcing Australian foreign policy to Washington. He claimed US military bases in Australia, such as Pine Gap, were used to gather intelligence and target bombs and missiles.
Labor Against War members also criticized the government for supporting the attacks, stating Australia is completely devoid of acting independently.
Wong declined to comment on the involvement of Pine Gap, stating a general policy of not commenting on the facility. Albanese stated questions regarding the legality of the attack should be directed to the US and those directly involved.
The Australian government previously made similar comments when backing US bombing of Iran’s nuclear facilities in June 2025, with then-President Trump claiming key enrichment facilities were “totally and completely obliterated.”
Wong concluded by stating Australia wants the resumption of dialogue and diplomacy and joins partners in calling on all parties to adhere to international humanitarian law.
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