Australia PM welcomes ceasefire, says Trump’s threats ‘not appropriate’

Anthony Albanese on Wednesday welcomed the two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran, but criticised Donald Trump for remarks threatening the destruction of Iran’s civilian infrastructure, calling such language “not appropriate.”

Trump had warned that “a whole civilization will die tonight” if Iran failed to meet his deadline for a deal, drawing concern from allies.

Albanese said the rhetoric was troubling but described the last-minute ceasefire agreement as “positive news,” stressing that Australia had consistently called for de-escalation and a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Speaking to ABC, Foreign Minister Penny Wong also condemned the remarks, saying no leader should threaten the destruction of a civilisation.

Wong added that the ceasefire was critical amid growing strain on the global economy and energy markets, and stressed the importance of ensuring it holds. She also rejected Israeli claims that the truce did not extend to Lebanon, where ongoing strikes have caused heavy casualties and mass displacement.