26 Aug 2025, 06:49
Australia expels Iranian ambassador over anti-Semitic attacks
- Iran is accused of orchestrating attacks on the Jewish community in Australia.
- Australia expels the Iranian ambassador following an ASIO investigation.
- The increase in anti-Semitic incidents began with the start of the war between Israel and Hamas.
Melbourne, Australia — Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese accused Iran of orchestrating at least two anti-Semitic attacks in Australia. In a statement, he announced the expulsion of the Iranian ambassador.
According to Albanese, Australian intelligence agencies linked Iran to attacks on a restaurant in Sydney and a mosque in Melbourne. Since the beginning of the war between Israel and Hamas in 2023, there has been a significant increase in anti-Semitic incidents in these locations.
“ASIO has gathered sufficient credible information to act on a deep-seated investigation. The Iranian government orchestrated at least two of these attacks. Iran is believed to be attempting to influence its participation, but ASIO assesses that it will stand by the attacks,” Albanese stated, referring to the domestic intelligence agency.
The Prime Minister also noted that ASIO believes it is likely that Iran orchestrated additional attacks. These acts of aggression were “extraordinary and unacceptable,” which undermines social cohesion in Australia.
The Iranian ambassador in Australia, Ahmad Sadeghi, will be expelled, while the Australian ambassador in Tehran will suspend his activities. ASIO Director Mike Burgess emphasized that the agency does not believe that Iran is responsible for every act of anti-Semitism in Australia, but its investigation focuses on the potential involvement of the Iranian government.
In response to ASIO's investigation, Iran and its proxies have been involved in non-violent activism in the community, which threatens the lives of people and undermines the social fabric of the country.
Tags: Middle East/Politics