KABUL (Pajhwok): Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has admitted that he was not advised of the Trump administration's intentions prior to the strikes that killed top Iranian military general in Iraq,
Morrison, however, said he was in "constant contact" with allies in the region and had made efforts to ensure the safety of Australians.
"United States took this action based on their own information and they took that action without discussing it with partners", Mr Morrison said.
He said he had been aware of Trump's concerns in relation to some practices by Iranians for some time, but he would leave it to them to talk to what their actions are.
Since drone attack against Soleimani, Trump administration didn't contact with Australia on US drone attack and emerging situation in Gulf other than President Trump call to PM Morrison on Tuesday to express his sympathy on bushfires. Federal Opposition Labor's leaders so far avoided to make any comment over US adventure.
Only Greens Party has strongly condemned assassination of Qasem Soleimani. Foreign Minister Marise Payne January 7 publicly plead for the Iraqi government to let Australian and international partners remain in the country to continue their vital work with Iraq’s security forces in countering the shared threat of Daesh. DFAT has already started contingency planning in case Baghdad buckles under pressure and adopts the resolution. “Australian government is working through the possible implications should the Iraqi government approve the resolution", she told journalists.
The Australian government is stunned over United States drone attack on Friday January 03, 2020. The boldness of US action has caught the world by surprise.
The assassination of a senior public official has radically shifted the principles of engagement. “The Iranian 22 ballistic missile attacks considered as an inevitable retaliation in the long and bloody history of Middle East conflict.” Said by Lauren Williams, Sydney based Lowy Institute.
“Prime Minister Scott Morrison who himself considers close friend of President Trump is surprised over US unilateral military action.
Australian leaders who are vocal advocate of human rights and rule of law, stayed away to comment on US aggression.
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