Australia joins International Maritime Security Construct in the Gulf

The Morrison Government is reaffirming its commitment to freedom of navigation and safe passage through the Gulf by announcing it will support an international maritime security mission.

This mission will see the Australian Defence Force work alongside its international partners to assure the security of merchant vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.

Australia’s contribution will include the deployment of:

• a P-8A Poseidon maritime surveillance aircraft to the Middle East for one month before the end of 2019;
• an Australian Frigate in January 2020 for six months; and
• ADF personnel to the International Maritime Security Construct headquarters in Bahrain.

Freedom of navigation through international waters is a fundamental right of all states under international law. All states have a right to expect safe passage of their maritime trade consistent with international law.

It is in Australia’s interest to work with international partners to uphold these rights.

Original source: DFAT
Published on 21 August 2019