No plan to protect Aussie troops from Iran attack

Greens Senator Kerry Nettle said today it was incredible that Defence had no plan to protect Australian troops in the Gulf if the US attacks Iran.

Under questioning by Senator Nettle during Senate Estimate hearings,
Lieutenant General Peter Leahy, Chief of Army revealed that Defence's "strategic command group" had no contingency plan in case of a US military attack on Iran.

Analysts have said a military attack will spark a major increase in conflict in Iraq and in the Persian Gulf which will threaten Australian forces.

"Despite the ups and downs in the international dispute about Iran's nuclear program it is clear a US military strike on Iran is still a strong possibility."

"It is incredible that Defence has not prepared for this contingency, which will increase the danger to our forces in the Persian Gulf and
Iraq."

"Up until now our troops have been relatively safe. If the US bombs Iran, the south of Iraq will explode."

"Minister Nelson needs to explain why he has not ensured the ADF prepare for this eventuality."