Loading

There is the more subtle question of whether the actions against the Houthis are purely to protect the lives of seamen and keep trading routes open, or whether the coalition is acting as a shield for Israel – both against missiles and drones directed at Israel itself, and Israel-related shipping. In the West, it is unlikely that this distinction will be closely examined, or if it is, greatly cared about. The Australian government’s narrative about the threat to the global economy and international commerce is likely enough.

Even Arab countries with domestic constituencies that weigh against their participation in, or vocal support for, the actions against the Houthis are unlikely to take issue with Australia for its involvement. Notably, Saudi Arabia and Egypt are not in the coalition, probably because of domestic anti-Israel sentiment. And yet, neither government is fond of the Houthis or Hamas, and while their relations with Israel may be strained, they likely feel an overriding imperative to try to defuse and stabilise relations with Israel, rather than further inflame them.

Accordingly, the Albanese government has reason to feel it has backed a winner. It can bask in the reflected strength and vigour of a government which has – sort of – gone to war for a reason projected and widely accepted as a public good; it again demonstrates solidarity (and generates goodwill) with its main ally the US and other important security partners; it feeds well into the government narrative of Iran as an adversary that operates through proxies; and is a domestic plus at a time when Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s ratings have been in trouble.

Apart from the ongoing tragedy of the humanitarian crisis confronting the people of Yemen, which will unlikely feature in the context of this latest action against the Houthis, Australia’s support for this military action looks like a low-cost, high-benefit decision for the government.

David Livingstone is a former Australian diplomat and an international security and strategy specialist. He served as deputy head of mission in Iraq between 2011 and 2012.

The Opinion newsletter is a weekly wrap of views that will challenge, champion and inform your own. Sign up here.