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| Senator David Johnston |
Minister for Defence, Senator David Johnston, is currently visiting Iraq and will then visit the United Arab Emirates.
“It’s in Australia’s best interests that we stand ready with the world – now in a coalition of more than 40 nations – to help the new Iraqi Government to disrupt and degrade the ISIL death cult and to regain control over its own country,” Senator Johnston said.
In Baghdad, Senator Johnston met with Iraqi Prime Minister, Haider al-Abadi, and other senior government officials.
Senator Johnston will also meet senior US officials to discuss the situation in Iraq and reaffirm Australia’s commitment to disrupt and degrade the ISIL death cult.
In the UAE, where Australian Defence Force personnel have been pre-deployed, Senator Johnston will meet with them at the Al Minhad Air Base. He will also meet the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and other national security officials, to discuss the situation in Iraq and regional states’ support to efforts to counter ISIL.
Senator Johnston will also express thanks to the UAE for use of the Al Minhad Air Base facilities and will reinforce Australia’s commitment to the bi-lateral defence relationship.
“Australia’s contribution to this international effort will be closely coordinated with the Iraqi government, regional nations and a broad coalition of international partners,” Senator Johnston said.
“There are at least 60 Australians we know are currently fighting with terrorist groups in Syria and Iraq and at least 100 Australians supporting them. More than 20 of these foreign fighters have already returned to Australia. Nothing can justify the actions of this ISIL death cult – like beheadings, crucifixions, mass executions, ethnic cleansing.”
“The Government will do whatever is possible to keep people safe. Our security measures at home and abroad are directed against terrorism, not religion, not any sector of the community,” Senator Johnston concluded.