United States President Donald Trump has criticised Australia for not providing military assistance in the conflict involving Iran, saying 'we asked them to be there' in relation to efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. His comments came as Lebanon and Israel agreed to a 10-day ceasefire, and he expressed dissatisfaction that Australia was not involved in operations linked to the key shipping route.

Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles rejected the claim that a specific request had been made, stating that the United States had not formally sought military support. He said Australia continued to work closely with its allies, including the United States, and supported the strategic objective of preventing Iran from obtaining a deployable nuclear weapon.

Australia has deployed an E-7A Wedgetail surveillance aircraft to the Middle East following requests from Gulf nations for protection against missile attacks. Government and opposition figures emphasised the importance of maintaining strong ties with the United States, with some calling for participation in a multinational effort to secure the Strait of Hormuz if required. Treasurer Jim Chalmers, visiting Washington, said no formal request for additional support had been received.