Foreign Minister Penny Wong will represent Australia at an international summit convened by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to explore ways to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The talks, involving 35 nations but excluding the United States, will examine 'all viable diplomatic and political measures' to end the blockade of oil shipments through the critical waterway.
A federal government spokesperson confirmed Wong's attendance, stating the meeting aims to 'advance freedom of navigation and maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz.' The spokesperson added, 'We all want to see safe passage of vessels through the strait, a critical waterway that is being held hostage by the Iranian regime.'
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese reiterated calls for de-escalation, warning the crisis would have a long-lasting effect on the Australian economy even if fighting stopped immediately. He said, 'I want there to be a recognition... about how this ends.' Defence Minister Richard Marles noted Australia's interest in working with the UK and France to reopen the waterway, highlighting the role of Australia's E-7A Wedgetail aircraft in providing defence for Gulf countries.
The 35 nations include the UK, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Japan, Canada, South Korea, New Zealand, the United Arab Emirates, and Nigeria. The talks follow Australia signing a UK-led statement condemning Iran's attacks on commercial vessels. About 1,000 ships and thousands of civilian sailors have been stranded by Iran's partial blockade, which has constrained global fuel supplies and swelled prices.
Opposition Leader Angus Taylor said any request for Australian contribution should be given 'full consideration' but questioned the country's capability to provide support. 'We certainly support opening up the Strait of Hormuz... Any reasonable requests made of us should be given absolute fair consideration,' Taylor told Sky News.
