Australia Deploys Crisis Teams to Evacuate Thousands from Iran, Israel Amid Conflict

As the conflict between Israel and Iran escalates, Australia is actively deploying military and crisis response teams to assist stranded Australians in both countries. Foreign Minister Penny Wong announced the closure of the Australian embassy in Tehran and the deployment of consular staff to Azerbaijan to help Australians cross borders safely, urging those able to leave Iran to do so immediately while advising others to shelter in place. The Australian government is also facilitating evacuations through neighboring countries, with some Australians traveling by bus to Jordan to fly home. Additionally, Australia is assisting Papua New Guinea in evacuating its citizens and diplomatic staff stranded in Israel, coordinating efforts through Jordan's open airspace amid ongoing hostilities. Despite challenges such as closed airspace and rapidly changing security conditions, Australia is exploring military and civilian options to evacuate citizens as soon as possible, emphasizing that these efforts are for support and not combat. Australians in both countries are strongly encouraged to register with official channels and stay informed about the evolving situation while the government calls for de-escalation and diplomatic solutions.