Australia Welcomes Iran Ceasefire, Criticizes Trump’s Rhetoric
Sydney — Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Wednesday welcomed a two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran but said remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump threatening Iran’s civilian infrastructure were “not appropriate.
”Albanese’s comments came after Trump warned that “a whole civilization will die tonight” if Tehran failed to meet a U.S. deadline for a deal, language the Australian leader said would cause concern.
“I don’t think it’s appropriate to use language such as that from the president of the United States,” Albanese said, while adding that the ceasefire represented a positive step.
“What we have called for is a de-escalation, and that is what has occurred, and that’s a good thing.”Australia has been among countries urging restraint amid escalating tensions that have disrupted global energy markets and heightened economic uncertainty.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong also criticized Trump’s remarks in an interview with national broadcaster ABC, saying threats of widespread destruction were unacceptable.
“I don’t think anyone should be threatening the destruction of a civilization,” Wong said, adding that the ceasefire must hold given its implications for the global economy and energy supplies.
Wong also rejected Israeli assertions that the ceasefire does not extend to Lebanon, where ongoing strikes have caused significant casualties and displacement.
The statements reflect broader international concern over the tone and scope of rhetoric surrounding the conflict, even as diplomatic efforts seek to stabilize the region under the fragile truce.
