CANBERRA — Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong have jointly welcomed the landmark agreement reached between the United States and Iran, hailing it as a critical step toward de-escalating a conflict that has gripped the Middle East for months.
In a joint statement issued on Monday, the Australian government urged all parties to exercise continued restraint and pursue constructive engagement to prevent further escalation and secure a lasting peace.
“The Australian Government welcomes the agreement by the United States and Iran,” the statement read. “Australia has long called for de-escalation and an end to the conflict, including in Lebanon. As we have said, the longer this war goes on, the greater the impact will be.”
Strait of Hormuz to Reopen
A key breakthrough in the agreement includes provisions to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and restore freedom of navigation — a development welcomed by Canberra as vital to global energy security.
“While full recovery will take time, restoring this vital trade corridor is essential to easing pressure on energy prices and economies, including in our region,” the leaders said.
The Strait, through which approximately one-fifth of global oil supply passes, had become a flashpoint during the conflict, disrupting supply chains and driving up fuel costs worldwide.
Australia Bolsters Energy Security
In response to the prolonged conflict, the Albanese government has quietly bolstered Australia’s domestic fuel reserves.
“We will continue to do all we can to shield Australians from the worst impacts of this conflict,” the statement said. “Australia now has more fuel in its reserves than ever and we will continue to work hard to ensure we have adequate supply.”
Nuclear Concerns Remain
While welcoming the agreement, the government also reiterated longstanding concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions, urging Tehran to address international scrutiny.
“Iran must address longstanding concerns about its nuclear program and the threat it poses to international security,” the statement said.
Diplomatic Efforts Recognised
Canberra took the unusual step of publicly commending the mediation efforts of several nations, including Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and other mediating countries, for their role in brokering the agreement.
“We commend the efforts to date of Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and other mediating countries,” the statement read.
Australia has also reaffirmed its commitment to working with international partners to promote peace, stability and long-term security in the Middle East.
“We encourage all parties to use this opportunity to pursue a durable and lasting peace through dialogue and diplomacy,” the leaders said.
