SYDNEY, March 8 (Reuters) - Australia's government said on Sunday it was considering requests to help protect countries attacked by Iran in the widening Middle East conflict, but reiterated it would
Australia Reviews Requests to Help Countries Attacked by Iran in Middle East Crisis
Australia's Position and Response to Middle East Escalation
Government Consideration of Assistance Requests
SYDNEY, March 8 (Reuters) - Australia's government said on Sunday it was considering requests to help protect countries attacked by Iran in the widening Middle East conflict, but reiterated it would not take part in any military operations in Iran.
Foreign Minister's Statement
"We've had many countries, which are non participants, (that) have been attacked by Iran through this. You would anticipate as a consequence that we have been asked for assistance, and we will work through that carefully," Foreign Minister Penny Wong said in televised remarks.
Australia's Military Stance
Australia, a close U.S. ally, has said it will not deploy troops to the Middle East if the conflict escalates.
Protection Against Iranian Attacks
Asked if Australia could help protect nations from Iranian drone and missile attacks, Wong said "correct".
Non-Participation in Offensive Actions
"We will work through that in accordance with the position that I have outlined, which is we are not participating in offensive action against Iran and we have made clear we will not participate in any ground troop deployment," Wong added.
Australian Defence Personnel Involvement
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Friday that three Australian defence personnel were on board a U.S. submarine that sank an Iranian warship with a torpedo in the Indian Ocean, but stressed that they did not take part in the attack.
Escalation of Middle East Conflict
The conflict in the Middle East has escalated this week, with U.S. and Israeli jets striking areas across Iran, and many Gulf cities - including in the UAE and Qatar - coming under Iranian bombardment.
Support for Australians in the Region
Australia is currently working with airlines to help thousands of Australians stranded in the Middle East.
(Reporting by Sam McKeith in Sydney; Editing by Kevin Buckland)
