Iran Conflict: Australian Government Ensures Safety Amid Rising Tensions

Iran's police chief has warned protesters they will be treated as 'enemies' and security forces remain stationed in the streets. The Australian government has taken proactive steps to safeguard its citizens following the recent US and Israeli attack on Iran.

The foreign affairs minister, Penny Wong, confirmed that embassies in Abu Dhabi and Tel Aviv and the consulate in Dubai have been physically closed in the last week. She highlighted the government's priority to 'keep Australians safe at home and abroad' as the situation in the Middle East continues to unfold.

The minister also spoke about the recent influx of returning Australians, with over 3,200 individuals returning from 23 commercial flights. This move was taken after the US and Israel's attack on Iran, sparking a regional conflict and grounding thousands of international flights.

Wong addressed concerns about fuel shortages, stating that petrol companies report fuel stock continues to arrive as expected, but there has been a shift in demand, affecting supply, particularly in regional communities.

In a related development, one of the two members of the Iranian women's football team, who had been granted a humanitarian visa to stay in Australia, has changed her mind and contacted the Iranian embassy. The Australian government respects the individual's decision to return to Iran, despite concerns about the potential consequences.