Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles addresses the chamber at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia, on Jan. 20, 2026. Hilary Wardhaugh/Getty Images
Australia has signalled strong support for keeping the Strait of Hormuz open, but remains cautious about committing to any direct role as tensions in the Middle East continue to escalate.
On April 14, Defence Minister Richard Marles said the government was closely engaged with international partners on maintaining the critical shipping route, while stopping short of outlining any immediate operational involvement.
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