Australia to Expel Iran’s Ambassador Over Alleged Antisemitic Attacks
In a bold move, Australia has announced its decision to expel Iran’s ambassador following accusations of the Iranian government orchestrating antisemitic attacks in Sydney and Melbourne.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the attacks as “extraordinary and dangerous acts of aggression orchestrated by a foreign nation”, emphasizing that fortunately, no injuries were reported from the incidents that took place last year.
Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (Asio) chief Mike Burgess revealed that intelligence pointed towards Iran being “likely” responsible for further attacks on Jewish targets in Australia.
Ambassador Ahmad Sadeghi, along with three other Iranian officials, have been given seven days to leave Australia. As of now, Iran has not responded to the allegations.
Burgess stated, “Iran has attempted to conceal its involvement, but Asio’s assessment confirms its role in the attacks on the Lewis Continental Kitchen in Sydney on 20 October last year, and the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne on 6 December.”
Foreign Minister Penny Wong noted that this expulsion marks the first instance since World War Two that Australia has taken such a drastic diplomatic action.
Wong also announced the suspension of operations at Australia’s embassy in Iran to ensure the safety of its staff, while urging Australians to avoid traveling to Iran and advising those already there to leave if possible.
Albanese further declared the designation of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization by his government. — BBC
