UPDATE: Over 200 Australians are on their way back home from the Middle East amid escalating conflict following US-led airstrikes on Iran. The first commercial flight departed Dubai at 9:30 AM AEDT and is expected to land in Sydney on Wednesday at 10:30 PM AEDT, marking a critical development for Australians trapped in the war-torn region.
As tensions rise, Foreign Minister Penny Wong announced that six crisis teams are being deployed to the Middle East to assist Australians needing help. While Wong did not disclose their specific locations due to security concerns, she confirmed that around 115,000 Australians are currently in the region, with approximately 24,000 in the United Arab Emirates alone.
In a statement, Wong highlighted the unprecedented number of Australians registering for assistance as the government evaluates their eligibility to return. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the urgency, urging citizens to maintain contact with airlines regarding their travel options.
“We understand this is a very distressing and challenging time for Australians who’ve been caught up in these events,” Albanese said during a parliamentary address. He also expressed gratitude to UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for providing hospitality to stranded Australians.
In a concerning escalation, Iran has retaliated with drone and missile attacks targeting ten countries in the region, following US and Israeli airstrikes. The United Nations has raised alarms, with special rapporteur Ben Saul condemning the strikes as “unlawful aggression” against Iran, stressing that these actions lack a valid self-defense justification.
Australia’s embassy in Saudi Arabia has issued warnings for citizens in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dhahran to take shelter, while a defense base in the UAE that houses Australian troops was previously hit by Iranian missile attacks.
Opposition foreign spokesman Ted O’Brien criticized the government for not exploring all options to ensure the safety of stranded Australians, urging collaboration with allies to facilitate evacuations.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on the Australian government for further measures to ensure the safe return of its citizens. The urgency of the crisis emphasizes the need for immediate action and support for those affected by this rapidly evolving conflict.
Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.
