This live news update covers a range of developments in Australian politics and international affairs, including an update to the Australian War Memorial’s treatment of Ben Roberts-Smith in its museum display and Anthony Albanese’s signing of a fuel agreement with Singapore.
It also comes as the head of the International Monetary Fund has warned that the war involving Iran will leave a permanent mark on the global economy, even if a peace settlement can eventually be reached. The IMF chief said that even in the most optimistic scenario, the conflict would still result in a downgrade to growth rather than a quick return to the pre-war situation.
The warning adds to growing concern about the broader economic consequences of conflict in the Middle East. According to the IMF chief, there will be no “neat and clean return to the status quo,” even under a best-case peace outcome.
Elsewhere in the political debate, criticism has again focused on Australia’s approach to Israel and the war in Lebanon. One argument raised in the discussion is that previous statements from Penny Wong, whether expressing concern or grave concern, have not had any effect.
Calls for stronger action on Israeli arms contracts
The source also reports renewed calls for Australia to cancel more than a billion dollars in Israeli arms contracts. Those advocating that step say it would respond to what they describe as the moral issue posed by Israeli military attacks and would also place direct material pressure on Israel to withdraw from what they call a disastrous, illegal and immoral war in Lebanon.
Supporters of this position argue that Australia should not be buying weapons tested by Israeli defence manufacturers in conflicts such as Gaza and Lebanon, and should not be contributing weapons parts. They say ending those contracts would make clear to Israel that its actions carry a direct cost.
The live coverage sits within a broader day of political reporting, with domestic decisions in Canberra and international warnings about war, trade, and energy security all feeding into the current news cycle.
As the updates continue, attention remains on the Australian government’s diplomatic and defence-related choices, as well as on the economic risks tied to conflict abroad. The IMF’s assessment underscores the possibility that even if fighting ends, the damage to global growth may linger for some time.
More developments are expected as the live blog continues to track reaction in Australia and overseas.
