Independent and Peaceful Australia Network (IPAN)
MEDIA RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 21, 2019
U.S. ALLIANCE BIGGEST THREAT TO AUSTRALIA –
NO NEED FOR NUKES OR MAJOR INCREASE IN MILITARY BUDGET
IPAN spokesperson Stephen Darley argues “Professor Hugh White[1] has it half-right – the US is not a reliable ally and Australia does need to be independent. But where he’s wrong is in assuming a built-in, long-term threat to Australia from countries like China and Russia”.
Australia’s major foreign policy problem comes from the US alliance itself – and the repeated deference to US global aggression, regardless of governing party. This is what creates threats to Australia.
This risk is especially created by Australia’s involvement, through Pine Gap and North-West Cape bases, with the US nuclear weapons systems and US Marines stationed in Darwin. “To conclude this is not a reliable defence for Australia (which is true) and then propose having nukes of our own is backward thinking”, said Mr Darley.
In addition, IPAN believes that the latest war-escalation towards Iran and the strong possibility of Australian involvement, is only the latest in many years of entanglements in wars against Australia’s interests.
“Australia needs to assert an independent foreign policy and reject the role of US “Deputy-Sheriff”, in the Pacific or anywhere else”, said Mr Darley.
“Australia needs a military policy focused on the genuine defence of this country – not acting as a US auxiliary. In fact, the US Alliance is not only the main threat to Australia’s peace and security but is also a high economic and military burden on the Australian people.”
IPAN is holding its National Conference in Darwin 2nd to 4th of August.
See www.ipan.org.au
Media Interviews: Contact Stephen Darley, 08 73298542
IPAN Media contact Officer: Kathryn Kelly: 0417 269 984
[1] Hugh White long time Defence Department official and academic