Australian Forces Deployed to Middle East Under Operation Beech for Civilian Support
Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel and Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) aircraft have been sent to the Middle East as part of Operation Beech, in a precautionary move by the federal government. The deployment includes RAAF C-130J Hercules transport aircraft and personnel, all assigned to a non-combat role.
The primary goal of this operation is to assist with contingency planning and potential evacuations of Australian citizens and approved foreign nationals from the region, should the security situation worsen. By sending these resources, the Australian government has ensured additional capabilities to support its citizens during times of crisis.
Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, Richard Marles, highlighted the security risks faced by Australians in areas like Lebanon during a television interview on ABC’s Insiders program on 6 October. He pointed out that while Beirut’s airport remains operational, strikes have occurred in nearby areas, increasing the urgency for Australians to leave.
“In the past 24 hours, we’ve facilitated the departure of over 400 people, primarily Australians, on flights from Beirut to Cyprus. This brings the total to more than 450 evacuated over the last week,” Marles said. He also emphasized ongoing arrangements with Qatar Airways and Qantas to transport Australians from Cyprus back home.
Marles stressed the importance of seizing the current window to leave, warning that the situation in Lebanon could deteriorate further. “We have around 3,600 Australians registered with our embassy in Beirut, all seeking some form of assisted departure. We will continue to offer these opportunities, but people must take them as they come.”
To bolster evacuation efforts, Australia has deployed additional military assets, including C-130 Hercules aircraft and a C-17, which are stationed in Cyprus. ADF personnel are also on the ground, prepared to assist should the need arise.
Australians in the Middle East who require government support are urged to register with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) via its Crisis Portal or contact the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre. DFAT will continue to provide updates to registered individuals as the situation develops.
Why show a photo of a Canadian C-130 when the article is about the ADF deployment?
My reason for the C130 photo is that to use the RAAF C 130 the copyright fee is $210, I can’t afford to pay that kind of copyright fee, when the Canadian C130 is free. If I use a copyrighted photo the fine can be over $2000, I have been caught previously. If you wish to kick the can for $210 I will gladly repost with a RAAF photo. Ray
I would think the point should be, why are there 3600 ‘Australians’ still in Lebanon given the circumstances and the warnings from Israel and Australia. Are some of these people Hezbollah supporters, maybe fighters?