Greens Senator Raises War Crime Concerns Over US Submarine Incident

Greens Senator David Shoebridge has made statements regarding the government's handling of the Middle East conflict and an incident involving a US submarine.

Prime Minister Confirms ADF Presence

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed that three Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel were on board a US nuclear-powered submarine. This submarine reportedly struck and sunk an Iranian vessel off the coast of Sri Lanka. Albanese stated that the Australian personnel were participating in exercises associated with the AUKUS pact.

Senator Shoebridge Alleges Potential War Crime

Senator Shoebridge asserted that the Prime Minister's confirmation implies ADF personnel were on a US submarine that destroyed an Iranian frigate and subsequently left survivors at sea.

He stated that this action potentially implicates Australian defense personnel in a war crime due to the sinking of the Iranian vessel and the alleged abandonment of survivors. Shoebridge clarified that while the act of striking the vessel might be considered legitimate, abandoning the sailors would contravene the Geneva Convention.

He also indicated that previous government statements, which claimed Australia was not directly involved in the conflict, have been contradicted by these events.