When the United States launched strikes on Iran a week ago, Australia was quick to back the move.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said it was about defending global security.

But critics say that argument sounds familiar. More than two decades ago, another Australian prime minister used almost identical arguments to justify joining America’s wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Back then, Albanese himself warned those decisions would redefine Australia as a willing backer of US militarism, no matter whether it is in the national interest.

Today, political editor at Crikey, Bernard Keane, on why he believes the Prime Minister has undergone a remarkable transformation, and what it means for Australia as the conflict grows.

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