US President Donald Trump has warned Iran that he would order further bombing raids on its nuclear sites if Tehran resumes efforts to develop a nuclear weapon. Speaking to reporters at the White House on Friday, Trump stated that he would “without question, absolutely” consider additional military action if necessary.
His remarks came as the number of Australians and their family members registered with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) crisis portal increased to 3,200. About 3,000 Australians in Iran are seeking assistance to leave, following the evacuation of Australia’s diplomatic staff after Israel began bombing Tehran in mid-June.
Some Australians, including those who traveled to the Iran-Azerbaijan border for help, faced difficulties, with Azerbaijan officials denying their entry due to a lack of special codes. However, DFAT has since resolved the backlog and is assisting Australians in securing seats on commercial flights leaving Iran, despite ongoing disruptions in air travel.
Meanwhile, tensions continue as a fragile ceasefire holds between Israel and Iran. Trump’s remarks were in response to threats from Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who had warned against further US strikes. Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, responded by urging the US to stop its “disrespectful tone” toward the Iranian leadership if it wishes to pursue a nuclear deal.
In Iran, many Australians of Iranian descent have expressed concern about the safety of their relatives, with some fearing not only Israeli airstrikes but also possible detention by Iranian authorities. Human rights organizations have raised alarms over the treatment of dissidents, with reports of executions and harsh repression of those deemed critical of the regime.
As the war continues, the situation remains volatile, with many Australians still hoping for safe passage out of Iran
