Australia declines US request to increase military commitment in Middle East

Australia has formally declined a request from the United States to increase its military commitment in the Middle East, ABC news reported on Thursday.

US Secretary of Defence Ash Carter asked all countries involved in the campaign to consider expanding their efforts in the face of a growing push to target Daesh militants.

At the time, the Australian government would not commit to the request, but noted Australia was already making the second largest contribution to military efforts in the region.

"The US has asked 40 or so other countries, including European countries, to consider expanded contributions to the coalition, following the attacks in Paris," a spokesman for Defence Minister Marise Payne said.

"Australia has considered the request from US Secretary of Defence, Ash Carter, in light of the substantial contributions we are already making to train Iraqi security forces and to the air campaign.

"The Government has advised Secretary Carter that our existing contributions will continue."

But the spokesman said Australia will still play an important role in the region.

"Australia is also well placed to make a very important contribution to command roles, and we will also increase the number of ADF personnel in coalition headquarters from 20 to 30," the spokesman said.

"Our aircraft in the Middle East are available to provide additional airlift support to benefit coalition humanitarian efforts.

"The Australian Government is also considering providing further humanitarian support for Syria and Iraq in the coming months.

"The Australian Government continues to keep our contribution under ongoing review in consultation with our coalition partners."

It was widely expected that Australia would decline the request.

Source: MENA