Australia urged dialogue in the Israel Iran conflict, but Israel’s ambassador dismissed diplomacy as Iran pushes nuclear weapons program.
Israel’s ambassador to Australia has strongly criticized calls for dialogue, following Australia’s plea to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East. This came after Israel launched airstrikes on Iranian nuclear and military targets, which triggered missile attacks in return.
Foreign affairs minister Penny Wong emphasized the need for restraint. She said Australia supports Israel’s right to defend itself but warned that rising violence could affect the whole region. Wong spoke on national television, calling the situation “very dangerous” and urged both sides to return to talks.
“Iran is a known threat. Its nuclear plans pose a danger not only to Israel but to global peace,” she said. Wong also mentioned that she had spoken with Iran’s foreign minister to press for a return to diplomacy.
She added that many countries share this view and are asking both Iran and Israel to calm tensions.
In response, Israeli ambassador Amir Maimon posted on X, rejecting the idea that diplomacy could work in this case. He argued that Iran is open about its aim to destroy Israel and is actively building nuclear weapons to do so.
“Iran has made this an uneven war—one side is a democracy, the other is a regime focused on destruction,” Maimon said. “Some still want diplomacy, as if words could stop missiles.”
The conflict escalated after Israel carried out one of its largest airstrikes ever against Iran. In response, Iran launched several missile and drone attacks.
At the same time, Australia announced sanctions on two Israeli ministers over their support for illegal settlements in the West Bank. This move, coordinated with the UK and Canada, caused some friction with the US. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemned the decision.
Wong said the decision was not easy but stood firm, pointing to violent actions by Israeli settlers that go against the idea of a future Palestinian state. “We are far from a two-state solution now,” she said. “But that’s why the world is working hard to make it happen.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also commented on the situation during a visit to Seattle. He advised Australians in the region to leave, saying it was becoming too dangerous. He made it clear that Australia will not join the fighting but will help its citizens abroad.
“Our focus is on protecting Australians. There is no role for us in this military conflict,” Albanese said.
The Department of Foreign Affairs is already helping Australians who are in affected areas.
Meanwhile, the United States was told in advance about Israel’s military plans but did not take part in the strikes. US officials warned Iran not to attack American forces or assets.
Albanese continued his trip to North America, heading to the G7 summit in Canada. There, he is expected to meet several world leaders, including US President Donald Trump. Talks at the summit may center on trade tariffs, but defence spending will also be discussed.
The US wants Australia to raise its military spending to 3.5% of its GDP. Australia currently plans to reach 2.3%. Albanese said his government would do what’s needed to protect national interests.
