Lebanon09 April, 20261 min read
Australia Demands Lebanon Be Included in Middle East Ceasefire
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Foreign Minister Penny Wong urges Lebanon inclusion in the US-Iran two-week ceasefire. Australia argues Lebanon inclusion protects oil supply through the Strait of Hormuz.
Australia's Position
Australia demands Lebanon be included in the two-week ceasefire agreed by Iran, the US, and Israel. Penny Wong warned continued fighting risks the whole ceasefire across the region.
In a joint statement, Australia and six other countries called for an urgent end to hostilities in Lebanon. The Australian government firmly believes Lebanon should be included, Prime Minister Albanese said.
Israel-Lebanon Hostilities
Israel continued strikes across Lebanon, its largest wave of attacks since the war began. Lebanese Civil Defence reported at least 254 killed and over 1,165 wounded. The strikes targeted Beirut, the Bekaa Valley, Mount Lebanon, and Sidon.
Iran's Revolutionary Guard issued a firm warning it would respond to the attacks on Lebanon. Iran declared the Strait of Hormuz closed again in response to the Israeli strikes.
International and Economic Implications
The expanding conflict raised alarm over the global economic impact, particularly on oil markets. The Strait of Hormuz became a focal point as Iran and Israel traded control over the waterway.
Regional leaders including Macron urged the ceasefire be extended to Lebanon. Conflicting declarations underscored how fragile the peace was.
Opposition and Criticism
A Reuters/Ipsos poll found only 27% of Americans approved of the strikes. Penny Wong criticised the civilisation-ending threat Trump made against Iran. The escalating death toll raised urgent questions about the human cost versus strategic objectives.