Australia has announced the expulsion of Iran's ambassador following accusations that the Iranian government directed antisemitic attacks in Sydney and Melbourne. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described these attacks as extraordinary and dangerous acts of aggression orchestrated by a foreign nation, stating they posed a significant threat to Australia's security.
The attacks, which targeted Jewish sites in October and December of last year, have been linked to the activities of Iran by the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO), whose chief, Mike Burgess, indicated that further attacks were likely. Consequently, Ambassador Ahmad Sadeghi and three other Iranian officials have been ordered to leave Australia within seven days, a rare move marking the first expulsion of a foreign ambassador since World War II. Iran has yet to respond to these serious claims.
In light of the alleged threats, Foreign Minister Penny Wong emphasized that Australia will sustain some diplomatic communication with Tehran while suspending operations at its embassy in Iran for the safety of its personnel. Wong also urged Australians to reconsider traveling to Iran and advised any citizens in the country to depart as soon as possible.
Additionally, Albanese confirmed his government's intention to classify Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization, signaling a major shift in Australia's foreign policy regarding Iran.
The attacks, which targeted Jewish sites in October and December of last year, have been linked to the activities of Iran by the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO), whose chief, Mike Burgess, indicated that further attacks were likely. Consequently, Ambassador Ahmad Sadeghi and three other Iranian officials have been ordered to leave Australia within seven days, a rare move marking the first expulsion of a foreign ambassador since World War II. Iran has yet to respond to these serious claims.
In light of the alleged threats, Foreign Minister Penny Wong emphasized that Australia will sustain some diplomatic communication with Tehran while suspending operations at its embassy in Iran for the safety of its personnel. Wong also urged Australians to reconsider traveling to Iran and advised any citizens in the country to depart as soon as possible.
Additionally, Albanese confirmed his government's intention to classify Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization, signaling a major shift in Australia's foreign policy regarding Iran.
