AUSTRALIA TO JOIN THE UNITED STATES-LED MISSION

Australia has decided to join the United States-led mission to ensure freedom of navigation and safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz amid heightened tensions with Iran.

According to the country's Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, Australia would deploy a frigate in January 2020 for six months, a P-8A Poseidon maritime surveillance aircraft for one month before the end of 2019 and ADF personnel to the International Maritime Security Construct headquarters in Bahrain.

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.

"We have been working closely with our allies and partners, particularly the United States and the United Kingdom, on this issue, which impacts global security and stability," Morrison said.

"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."