News live: Labor dismisses Tony Abbott’s calls for Australia to join war in Middle East

Former PM asks ‘What is the point of having armed forces if they’re not to be used to support our allies in a just cause.’ Follow updates liveGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastHead of IMF says Iran war will permanently scar global economy even if peace is reachedThe head of the International Monetary Fund has warned that the Iran war will permanently scar the global economy even if a durable peace deal in the Middle East can be reached.But now, even our most hopeful scenario involves a growth downgrade. Even in a best case, there will be no neat and clean return to the status quo.Penny Wong’s previous statements, whether it’s concerned or gravely concerned, have had no effect.But cancelling more than a billion dollars in Israeli arms contracts – that would not only