Full Story Newsroom edition: Labor is walking a tightrope as the politics of war hits Australia
Mar 12, 2026
Ben Doherty, senior reporter experienced in defence reporting; Mike Ticher, political and policy analyst; Gabrielle Jackson, commentator on politics and social issues. They discuss Australia’s growing role in the Iran conflict, legal and parliamentary questions about involvement, media reporting on Australians attached to US forces, political risks for Labor, and strain in relationships with allies like the UAE.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Australia's Practical Role Makes It A Belligerent
- Australia is materially involved in the Iran war despite government rhetoric claiming only defensive support.
- Ben Doherty cites Australian submariners, Pine Gap intelligence links, F-35 production and deployed missiles and personnel as evidence of active participation.
Offensive Versus Defensive Is A Political Distinction
- The legal distinction between offensive and defensive Australian actions is negligible.
- Mike Ticher and Ben Doherty say 'offensive vs defensive' is politically useful but legally a distinction without a difference.
AUKUS And Industry Ties Limit Australia's Independence
- Australia's deep integration with US defence networks constrains rapid withdrawal from conflicts.
- Ben Doherty points to AUKUS, industrial ties and submarine cooperation as factors tying Australia into US operations.