Iranian Involvement in Antisemitic Attacks Stirs Fear and Division in Australian Communities

Bijan Kardouni's initial reaction to the revelation that Iran was involved in at least two antisemitic incidents in Australia was one of disappointment, which soon transformed into fear for his safety. Having fled Iran eight years ago due to anti-gay persecution, he found the activities of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Australian soil to be particularly alarming, fearing the power it might wield to target individuals like him.

The Iranian community in Australia, which numbers nearly 86,000 as of June 2023, has been divided by the recent disclosures regarding IRGC's actions. Many Iranian migrants oppose the acts of the Iranian government and are supportive of Australia's decision to sever diplomatic ties and close its embassy in Tehran. Siamak Ghahreman, the president of the Australian-Iranian Community Organisation, shared his relief at the fulfillment of their demands to shut down the Iranian embassy and designate the IRGC as a terror organization.

Despite these developments, Kardouni expressed concern that the broader Australian public may conflate the Iranian community with the regime itself, potentially viewing them as a threat. He emphasized that refugees like himself seek safety from oppressive governance and do not share the regime's agendas. However, he worries that the closure of the embassy may complicate visa processes for Iranians wishing to travel to Australia.

The Jewish community in Australia has reacted with mixed feelings to the news of Iranian involvement in attacks against them, recognizing the danger they now face while grappling with ongoing antisemitism. Danielle Tischmann, co-president of the Australasian Union of Jewish Students, pointed out that the revelation underscores the vulnerability of Jewish institutions and individuals, igniting fears about attending places of worship or local businesses.

On the other hand, members of the Australian Palestinian community are expressing feelings of vindication regarding their stance that the local pro-Palestinian protests are primarily peaceful. University student Raneem argued that the IRGC's actions illustrate a clear distinction between their movement and the rise in antisemitic attacks, although she also expressed frustration over perceived double standards in governmental responses to international incidents.

Overall, Raneem highlighted how the Australian government’s swift diplomatic actions against Iran suggest that similar measures could be applicable regarding Australia’s response to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. By taking decisive steps against Iran, it shows that governments have various tools at their disposal when addressing international wrongdoing.