Australia Expels Iranian Ambassador Over Antisemitic Attacks
Australian government accuses Iran of orchestrating antisemitic arson attacks in Melbourne and Sydney, marking the first expulsion of an ambassador since World War II.
In a significant diplomatic move, Australia has expelled Iran's ambassador, Ahmad Sadeghi, following accusations that Tehran was behind antisemitic arson attacks in Melbourne and Sydney.
This action marks the first time since World War II that Australia has taken such a step.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Tuesday that intelligence services had reached the 'deeply disturbing conclusion' that Iran directed at least two antisemitic attacks.
The prime minister highlighted incidents including an arson attack on the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne, which occurred in December 2024, and a fire attack on the Lewis Continental Cafe in Sydney's Bondi suburb in October 2024.
These attacks, according to Albanese, were 'extraordinary and dangerous acts of aggression' aimed at undermining social cohesion and sowing discord within the Australian community.
No injuries were reported in these incidents.
In response, Australia has declared Sadeghi 'persona non grata,' ordering him and three other Iranian officials to leave the country within seven days.
Australia has also withdrawn its ambassador from Iran and suspended embassy operations in Tehran.
Albanese assured that all Australian diplomats are safe in a third country.
Additionally, the government plans to legislate to list Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization.
This diplomatic standoff comes amid concerns over Iran's involvement in other attacks targeting Jewish interests in Australia.
The Australian Security Intelligence Organization (ASIO) director-general, Michael Burgess, detailed how Iranian proxies utilized complex networks to mask Tehran’s direct involvement.
While the Iranian embassy and diplomats themselves were not implicated, the investigation revealed links between the IRGC and multiple incidents.
The crisis has led to reduced consular services for Australians in Iran.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong strongly advised against travel to Iran, emphasizing that those currently there should attempt to leave safely.
The situation underscores escalating tensions between Australia and Iran, prompting calls for increased vigilance and security measures within the Jewish community.
This action marks the first time since World War II that Australia has taken such a step.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Tuesday that intelligence services had reached the 'deeply disturbing conclusion' that Iran directed at least two antisemitic attacks.
The prime minister highlighted incidents including an arson attack on the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne, which occurred in December 2024, and a fire attack on the Lewis Continental Cafe in Sydney's Bondi suburb in October 2024.
These attacks, according to Albanese, were 'extraordinary and dangerous acts of aggression' aimed at undermining social cohesion and sowing discord within the Australian community.
No injuries were reported in these incidents.
In response, Australia has declared Sadeghi 'persona non grata,' ordering him and three other Iranian officials to leave the country within seven days.
Australia has also withdrawn its ambassador from Iran and suspended embassy operations in Tehran.
Albanese assured that all Australian diplomats are safe in a third country.
Additionally, the government plans to legislate to list Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization.
This diplomatic standoff comes amid concerns over Iran's involvement in other attacks targeting Jewish interests in Australia.
The Australian Security Intelligence Organization (ASIO) director-general, Michael Burgess, detailed how Iranian proxies utilized complex networks to mask Tehran’s direct involvement.
While the Iranian embassy and diplomats themselves were not implicated, the investigation revealed links between the IRGC and multiple incidents.
The crisis has led to reduced consular services for Australians in Iran.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong strongly advised against travel to Iran, emphasizing that those currently there should attempt to leave safely.
The situation underscores escalating tensions between Australia and Iran, prompting calls for increased vigilance and security measures within the Jewish community.
