• Australia suspends operations at its Tehran embassy citing deteriorating security.
• Over 2,000 Australians are registered in Iran, seeking assistance to leave.
• Australia joins several nations, including the UK and New Zealand, in shutting down embassies.

Australia has announced the suspension of operations at its embassy in Tehran, citing a deteriorating security environment. Foreign Minister Penny Wong indicated that the decision was influenced by the recent escalation of military actions between Israel and Iran, which began with airstrikes by Israel aimed at neutralizing perceived nuclear threats. More than 1,500 Australians currently in Iran have requested assistance in departing, with the Australian government deploying consular staff to support this effort in neighboring Azerbaijan, according to Reuters and AA.

According to Wong, "This is not a decision taken lightly," as the government advised all Australians able to leave Iran to do so now, while those who cannot were encouraged to shelter in place. Similar actions have been taken by other nations, including Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, and New Zealand, all responding to the escalating conflict, according to India Times and Le Monde.

As the situation worsens, reports indicate significant casualties on both sides, with claims of hundreds killed in the ongoing military exchanges. Australian officials have clarified that the embassy will continue to operate remotely while emphasizing the serious risks involved in the current environment, according to AA and Le Monde.