RAAF planes land in Middle East ahead of more repatriation flights for Aussies stuck in Israel
Two Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) planes have now reached the Middle East after landing in Dubai ahead of repatriation flights for Australians stranded in Israel.
Two RAAF C-17 Globemaster jets have reportedly touched down in the United Arab Emirates as the Australian government sends in reinforcement to help Australian nationals fleeing the conflict between Israel and Iran.
A small group of Australians have already been bussed across the border from Tel Aviv into Amman in Jordan.
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The RAAF's eighth C-17A Globemaster arrives at RAAF Base Amberley. (File image) Australian Defence Force
Foreign Minister Penny Wong this week said around 1200 Australians in Israel were seeking help, while around 1500 Australians in Iran had registered for assistance.
Land border crossings in Jordan have been known to open and close at a short notice and the Australian government warned those trying to leave to keep updated with the latest information.
There are two land border crossings between Israel and Jordan, Sheikh Hussein/Jordan River near Irbid and Wadi Araba near Aqaba.
Israel's airspace is currently closed amid constant rocket and drone attacks between the region and Iran.
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Israeli air defense system fires to intercept missiles during an Iranian attack over Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, June 21, 2025. AP
The missile attacks escalated overnight, with Israel hitting dozens of sites in Iran's west and in Tehran.
Israeli forces have also gone after a nuclear facility in Isfahan, south of the capital.
The US also carried out an attack on three Iranian nuclear sites, including Fordow, Trump confirmed today.
The Australian government evacuated the national embassy in Tehran on Friday.
Australia's Ambassador to Iran remained in the region to support the government's response to this crisis, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed.
"We are continuing planning to support Australians seeking to depart Iran, and we remain in close contact with other partner countries," Wong said.
"At this stage, our ability to provide consular services is extremely limited due to the situation on the ground. The airspace remains closed."
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The damaged headquarters of Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting, Iranian state television, is seen in Tehran, Iran, Thursday, June 19, 2025. AP
9news.com.au has contacted the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade for comment.
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