Australia Suspends Tehran Embassy Amid Heightened Tensions

Australia has suspended its Tehran embassy due to escalating tensions, as Israel continues its strikes on Iran's nuclear sites. Foreign Minister Penny Wong announced the deployment of defence personnel for potential evacuations. Meanwhile, Australians are advised to exit via Azerbaijan, with 2,000 seeking assistance.

Australia has suspended operations at its Tehran embassy due to escalating security concerns amid Israel's strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities. The air conflict continues without an apparent exit strategy from either party.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong announced the deployment of Australian defence personnel to the Middle East to assist in evacuation plans when airspace reopens. These forces are not intended for combat, she emphasized.

Consular staff are being positioned in Azerbaijan to aid Australians leaving Iran by road. Ian McConville, Australia's ambassador to Iran, remains in the region, while Wong held discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the unfolding crisis.

(With inputs from agencies.)