Albanese on Iran war: “What more needs to be achieved?”

Australia is increasingly feeling the economic impact of the war involving Iran, as the country remains heavily dependent on oil shipments that pass through the Strait of Hormuz.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he did not watch US President Donald Trump’s latest speech on Thursday, as he was preparing to deliver his own nationally televised address. Speaking later at the National Press Club, Albanese said he believes Iran’s air force, navy, and military-industrial base have been significantly degraded, along with its capacity to launch missiles.

“Now those objectives have been realised, it is not clear what more needs to be achieved — or what the endpoint looks like,” he said.

Albanese has repeatedly called for de-escalation and urged Washington to consider the broader economic consequences of the conflict for global partners.

While all 81 oil tankers expected to arrive in Australia in March were delivered successfully, the outlook for future shipments remains uncertain. Concerns over potential disruptions have already triggered panic buying.

In a rare address to the nation on Wednesday, Albanese urged Australians not to stockpile fuel and encouraged people to work from home or use public transport where possible to ease pressure on supplies.

By Tamilla Hasanova