Australia Expels Iranian Ambassador, Accuses Tehran of Antisemitic Attacks

Australia has accused Iran of orchestrating two antisemitic arson attacks in Sydney and Melbourne. In response, the Australian government has ordered Iran's ambassador to leave the country within seven days. This action represents a significant diplomatic escalation, marking the first expulsion of a foreign ambassador by Australia since World War II.

The allegations of Iranian involvement come amid a rise in antisemitic incidents across Australia, particularly since the start of the Israel-Gaza war in October 2023. Numerous instances of vandalism and arson have targeted Jewish homes, schools, synagogues, and vehicles throughout the country during this period.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) has gathered credible evidence directly linking Iran to at least two of these attacks. He described these actions as "extraordinary and dangerous acts of aggression" aimed at dividing Australian society and inciting conflict.

According to Albanese, Iran attempted to conceal its role in the December 2023 arson attacks, which targeted a kosher restaurant in Sydney and the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne. Intelligence also suggests Iran's potential involvement in other attacks within Australia.

In response to these actions, Australia has suspended operations at its embassy in Tehran. Australian diplomats are safe and currently located in another country. Furthermore, the Albanese government intends to formally designate Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong announced the expulsion of Ambassador Ahmad Sadeghi and three other Iranian officials, giving them one week to leave the country. This marks a rare instance of Australia expelling a foreign envoy, a step not taken in nearly eight decades.

Israel's embassy in Canberra has welcomed Australia's decision, emphasizing that Iran poses a threat not only to Jews and Israel but also to the broader international community, including Australia.

The accusations follow a period of increased tension between Iran and Israel, including a 12-day air war in June after Israel targeted Iranian nuclear facilities.

Australia is home to a significant Iranian diaspora, with approximately 90,000 people of Iranian origin residing in the country.

Investigations into the arson attacks are ongoing. Two individuals have been charged in connection with the December fire at the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne. Police are reviewing electronic devices seized from one of the suspects. In Sydney, a man arrested in January in connection with the arson at the Lewis Continental Kitchen has denied the charges and is currently out on bail.