Australia Could Get Dragged Into Iran War Through 'Deception and Stealth', Greens Warn

Australia could be signed up to the Iran war 'by deception and stealth' if it provides military support to Gulf countries, the Greens have warned. Greens senator Nick Shoebridge sounded the alarm as the Labor government is expected to announce possible defense measures to protect Gulf countries within days.

The Greens say sending military support to Gulf countries would only serve Donald Trump's interests in the growing Iran war, as international law experts warn such assistance would mean Australia would be legally part of the conflict.

Cabinet's national security committee met on Monday to consider requests for Australia to provide help to countries feeling the brunt of Tehran's missile attacks, sparked by bombings ordered by the US president and Israel.

Shoebridge warned that any Australian involvement, even in a support capacity, would mean the country is legally part of the Iran conflict under international law. "We would be signed up to the Iran war by deception and stealth," he said.

The Greens senator said sending military support would only serve Trump's interests, as the former US president continues to escalate tensions with Iran. "This is Donald Trump's war, and we shouldn't be getting involved," Shoebridge said.

International law experts have echoed the Greens' concerns, stating that any Australian military assistance to Gulf countries would make the country a party to the Iran conflict. "Once you start providing military support, you become a participant in the conflict," said Ben Saul, professor of international law at the University of Sydney.

The Labor government is still considering its options, with Foreign Minister Penny Wong saying Australia would not participate in any ground war but may offer other forms of support. However, the Greens and legal experts warn that any involvement, no matter how limited, could still legally bind Australia to the Iran conflict.

As tensions continue to escalate in the region, the debate over Australia's role in the Iran-Gulf crisis is set to intensify in the coming days. The Greens and international law scholars are urging the government to carefully weigh the legal and strategic implications before committing any military resources.