Australia news live: Wong flags military assistance in Middle East but no ‘offensive action’ against Iran

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese revealed that three Australians were aboard a U.S. submarine involved in the sinking of an Iranian warship in the Indian Ocean. The timing of the disclosure has raised concerns about Australia's deepening military alliance with the United States. Specifically, there are fears that this close cooperation could potentially involve Australia in the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The incident and subsequent disclosure highlight the complexities of Australia's international relationships and its role in global security matters. The exact date of the sinking and further details about the Iranian warship have not been released.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed that three Australian Defence Force (ADF) members were aboard a US submarine involved in sinking an Iranian warship. The incident occurred at an unspecified time and location. The ADF personnel were participating in an Aukus training program at the time of the event. Albanese stated that no Australian personnel participated in attacks on Iran. The Labor government initially declined to comment on the reports before Albanese's confirmation.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed that three Australian military personnel were aboard a US submarine that sank an Iranian navy ship, the IRIS Dena, off the coast of Sri Lanka this week. The incident, a torpedo attack that killed at least 84 sailors, marks the first military strike outside the Middle East since the US and Israel initiated their war on Iran. Albanese stated the Australian personnel were participating in training exercises as part of the AUKUS defense pact with the US and Britain. He clarified that the Australian personnel did not participate in any offensive actions against Iran. These arrangements are long-standing and predate the recent conflict.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is facing criticism for his shifting stance on recent U.S. and Israeli actions against Iran. Initially supportive, Carney then questioned the lack of UN engagement and allied consultation, including Canada. He later stated that Canadian military participation couldn't be ruled out, prompting accusations of inconsistency from both sides of the political spectrum. Critics, including opposition leaders and academics, highlight the contradictory nature of his statements, which range from support to potential involvement to expressing concern. Some suggest Carney's evolving position reflects an attempt to balance public opinion, Canadian interests, and the crucial relationship with the United States. Experts believe Canada's involvement in a potential conflict is unlikely unless a NATO member invokes Article 5.

In Canberra, Australia on Thursday, March 5, 2026, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese held a joint news conference addressing the Iran war. The leaders jointly urged for a de-escalation of the conflict. However, both Carney and Albanese agreed that Iran must not be allowed to develop or acquire nuclear weapons. The prime ministers discussed the ongoing war during their meeting in Australia. The Associated Press reported on the leaders' statements regarding the need for de-escalation and the prevention of Iran obtaining nuclear capabilities.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney addressed the Australian parliament, stating the post-war global order is collapsing and urging Australia and Canada to collaborate as "strategic cousins." He emphasized the need for middle powers to shape new global rules, particularly in critical minerals, defense, and AI. Carney highlighted the increasing desire for sovereign autonomy among nations due to perceived inadequacies in the existing global framework. Australia will join the G7 Critical Minerals Alliance, strengthening cooperation in this sector. Both leaders addressed the Middle East conflict, calling for de-escalation and emphasizing the need to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.

Canadian PM Mark Carney visited Australia to advocate for closer cooperation between the two countries as "strategic cousins" to counter the influence of dominant superpowers. He proposed enhanced collaboration on critical minerals, defense, and trade, announcing Australia's inclusion in the G7 critical minerals alliance. Carney emphasized the need for Canada and Australia to act as collaborators rather than competitors to boost investments, enhance supply chain resilience, and expand domestic processing abilities. He also addressed international law concerns regarding US and Israeli strikes on Iran, stating they appeared unlawful without UN Security Council support or imminent threat. Carney has been advocating for renewed middle-power diplomacy to protect national sovereignty amid a weakening international order.

In Canberra on March 5, 2026, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney addressed the possibility of Canada's involvement in a potential war with Iran. Speaking alongside the Australian Prime Minister, Carney stated that while he desires de-escalation of the Iran attacks, he could not rule out the possibility of Canadian military participation. The statement was made to reporters during Carney's visit to Australia. The reason for the statement was to address the potential for escalating conflict with Iran and Canada's possible role.

Amidst global challenges, including a U.S. trade war and calls for Canada's annexation by former President Trump, former Bank of England Governor Mark Carney suggests Canada and Australia can take a leading role on the world stage. The Canadian Prime Minister is currently touring the Asia-Pacific region. The purpose of the tour is to strengthen alliances. These renewed alliances are intended to address current global crises. The specific crises were not detailed in the article.