Politics Now Why petrol prices are 'kryptonite' for governments
Mar 5, 2026
Cameron Stewart, Chief International Correspondent at The Australian, offers sharp reporting on global affairs. He discusses US‑Israeli strikes and their impact on the rules‑based order. He explains why Australia quietly backed the strikes and the political risks for Albanese. He calls petrol prices "kryptonite" for governments and outlines evacuation and budget pressures amid Middle East tensions.
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Democracies Torn Between Law And Security
- Western democracies face a contradiction between upholding international law and supporting actions that remove perceived nuclear threats.
- Cameron Stewart explains Australia backed US-Israeli strikes despite legal concerns because weakening Iran aligns with national and allied security interests.
Albanese Keeps A Small Target On Trump
- Anthony Albanese chose a low-profile alignment with the US to avoid direct conflict with President Trump and protect alliance ties.
- Stewart says this 'small target' tactic preserves deep military and intelligence links while minimising public political fights with the US.
Middle Powers Should Untether From Hegemons
- Mark Carney urges middle powers to untether from hegemons and form new trade and defence bargains.
- Fran Kelly frames Carney's visit as pressure on Australia to seek cooperative arrangements beyond reliance on the US and China.