Full Story Why is Albanese supporting Trump’s illegal strike on Iran?
Mar 2, 2026
Tom McIlroy, political editor at The Guardian, gives a sharp take on Australia’s rapid backing of US and Israeli strikes on Iran. He unpacks parliamentary fallout, legal concerns raised by experts, and debates over diplomacy versus military action. He also explores Pine Gap’s secrecy and the likelihood of Australian combat involvement.
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Australia First To Endorse Strikes
- Australia was the first country to explicitly back US and Israeli strikes on Iran, linking those strikes to Iran's nuclear program and interference in Australia.
- Tom McIlroy notes the PM cited threats including Iran's ballistic program and attacks like the Adas Israel synagogue firebombing to justify immediate support.
Senate Debate Intensifies Over Support
- The opposition moved a Senate motion to publicly back the US and Israel and signal certainty to allies and Australians, while debate in the Senate became heated.
- McIlroy says timing and media attention amplified the global notice of Australia's swift, strong statement.
Greens Raise Legal And Pine Gap Concerns
- The Greens pushed back quickly, citing international law and warning about precedent like Iraq where Australia followed the US.
- They raised questions about joint facilities such as Pine Gap and likened the government's alignment with Trump to past blind followings.