Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has voiced Australia’s support for joint US-Israeli missile strikes targeting Iran’s Islamic regime, as tensions in the Middle East escalate rapidly. The first reported strike occurred near offices linked to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, following weeks of mounting hostilities. In a statement issued Saturday night, Albanese said Australia supports efforts to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon and from continuing actions that threaten international peace and security. He confirmed Australian officials are closely monitoring developments and urged Australians not to travel to Iran, advising those currently there to leave if it is safe. Travel warnings have also been upgraded for Israel and Lebanon to “Do Not Travel,” while the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has activated its Crisis Centre to assist Australians in the region. Several flights departing Australia for Middle Eastern destinations, including services to Doha and Abu Dhabi, were turned around mid-air amid security concerns.

Albanese reiterated that Australia previously designated Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a state sponsor of terrorism, citing alleged attacks on Jewish targets in Sydney and Melbourne in 2024. He said the Iranian regime has long acted as a destabilizing force through its missile and nuclear programs, support for armed groups, and repression of its own citizens. Opposition Leader Angus Taylor also condemned the regime, describing it as authoritarian and dangerous. Meanwhile, Iranian-Australians report deep anxiety as communications with family members in Iran remain disrupted. Some express fear over potential escalation, while others hope the crisis could mark a turning point for change inside Iran. With retaliatory strikes already reported across the region, global leaders are warning of the risk of broader conflict.