KATHMANDU: Anthony Albanese said on Thursday that the original objectives of the war involving Iran had largely been achieved and questioned what more could be gained from continuing the conflict.
Speaking in the capital Canberra, Albanese called for de-escalation, noting that joint strikes by the United States and Israel had significantly weakened Iran’s air force, navy and military industrial base.
“Now those objectives have been realised, it is not clear what more needs to be achieved or what the end point looks like,” he said. He added that a prolonged conflict could have serious consequences for the global economy.
Australia, which relies heavily on imported fuel and holds about 37 days’ supply of petrol, has taken measures to soften the impact of rising energy prices. The government has cut petrol taxes and pledged $680 million in loans to businesses.
Albanese reiterated that Australia is not a participant in the war.
Meanwhile, Defence Minister Richard Marles said Canberra is in discussions with United Kingdom and France on possible contributions to efforts aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a key maritime route through which about one-fifth of the world’s oil passes during peacetime.
Iran has effectively closed the strait since US-Israeli strikes on February 28 escalated tensions into a wider regional conflict, pushing global oil and gas prices higher.
Marles told Sky News Australia that reopening the strait is a priority but added that current conditions do not yet allow such operations. He said Australia would attend a multinational meeting convened by Britain to discuss the issue.
Albanese’s remarks came as Donald Trump said the United States would continue “extremely hard” strikes against Iran for another two to three weeks.
In a televised speech, Trump said Washington aims to weaken Iran’s military capabilities, end its support for regional armed groups and prevent it from obtaining a nuclear weapon. He added that the United States believes these strategic objectives are close to being achieved.
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