Concerns Raised Over Albanese Govt's Response to US-Israel Strikes on Iran

Concerns have been raised by Labor MPs about the Albanese government's immediate response to the US and Israel's bombing of Iran, including a statement that offered unreserved support for the legally questionable attack that sparked the war.

Guardian Australia can reveal that these concerns were aired during a meeting of Labor's left faction after the first strikes on Iran in February, which triggered the conflict that has since spread across the region.

Several MPs questioned why the party rushed to endorse strikes that were likely in breach of international law, according to sources familiar with the discussions. The MPs argued the government should have taken a more cautious and measured approach, rather than immediately backing the military action.

The revelation of the internal concerns comes as the war in Iran continues to escalate, with the US and its allies conducting further airstrikes and Iran retaliating with missile attacks on American and Israeli targets.

The Labor government has defended its response, arguing that it was appropriate to show solidarity with Australia's allies in the face of Iranian aggression. However, some backbenchers have privately expressed unease about the government's stance, fearing it could further inflame the conflict and damage Australia's reputation as an independent and impartial actor in the region.

The concerns raised by Labor MPs highlight the political and diplomatic challenges the government faces in navigating the complex and volatile situation in the Middle East. As the war continues to rage, the government will likely face increasing pressure to articulate a more nuanced and measured response that balances Australia's strategic interests with its commitment to international law and diplomacy.