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Australia has expelled an Iranian ambassador for the first time since World War II. The expulsion comes after Australian security agencies concluded that Tehran directed at least two antisemitic attacks in Sydney and Melbourne. The decision to expel Iranian Ambassador Ahmad Sadeghi was made following findings by the Australian Security Intelligence Organization (ASIO) that Iran was behind arson attacks on a kosher food company and a synagogue.
The Australian government’s response underscores its stance against antisemitism and highlights the severity of the situation. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated, “These were extraordinary and dangerous acts orchestrated by a foreign nation on our soil. They are attempts to undermine social cohesion and sow discord in our community. It is totally unacceptable.”
In reaction, Iranian media reported that an Iranian spokesman denounced the accusations as baseless. The Iranian Foreign Ministry has yet to comment.
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Why It Matters
This action by Australia follows its recognition of a Palestinian state, which has strained relations with Israel. Canberra’s decision is part of broader foreign policy shifts amid ongoing conflicts in Gaza and criticism of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s plan to expand the offensive.
Netanyahu characterized Albanese as a “weak politician who had betrayed Israel” for recognizing the Palestinian state.
What To Know
ASIO found that Iran was behind attacks on the Lewis Continental Kitchen and Adass Israel Synagogue. In response, Sadeghi was expelled.
“These were extraordinary and dangerous acts of aggression orchestrated by a foreign nation on Australian soil,” Albanese said in a statement.
Australian authorities also warned citizens in Iran to “strongly consider leaving” due to heightened risks, including the potential for arbitrary detention. The travel warning was updated to its highest level: “Do not travel” to Iran.
“Foreigners in Iran, including Australians and dual nationals, are at a high risk of arbitrary detention or arrest,” the warning stated.
Iran’s foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said Iran is “weighing a response.” He added that antisemitism is not part of Iranian religion and should be attributed to Westerners instead. The statement was reported by the semiofficial Tasnim news agency.
“These allegations are absolutely invalid, and the concept of antisemitism has no place in our religion,” Baqaei said.
In response, Daniel Aghion, president of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, stated, “These attacks instigated by the Iranian regime are an attack on our nation and sovereignty. Israel’s enemies are Australia’s enemies.”
