Australia has accused Iran of directing a series of antisemitic arson attacks on its soil and has announced the expulsion of Iranian diplomats. The decision follows intelligence findings that linked Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to attacks on Jewish institutions in Sydney and Melbourne.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the incidents “extraordinary and dangerous acts of aggression” designed to divide Australian society and “undermine social cohesion.”
The Attacks in Sydney and Melbourne
Australian security agencies concluded that Iran was behind two high-profile incidents:
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An arson attack on Lewis’ Continental Kitchen, a kosher restaurant in Sydney, in October.
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The firebombing of Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne, in December.
No one was injured, but authorities said the attacks were meant to intimidate the Jewish community and destabilize Australian society.
Intelligence Links to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard
Mike Burgess, Australia’s intelligence chief, said the investigation revealed a “complex web of proxies” tied to the IRGC, which is already considered a terrorist group by the United States.
He noted that organized crime groups outside Australia were also involved, though he did not provide further details.
This comes after similar warnings from British authorities, who said Iran’s Revolutionary Guard had been conducting cyberattacks, espionage, and political interference in Europe.
Diplomatic Fallout: Iran’s Envoys Expelled
Foreign Minister Penny Wong confirmed that Iran’s ambassador, Ahmad Sadeghi, and his team were given seven days to leave Australia.
This marks the first time since World War II that Australia has expelled an ambassador. Wong said Iran had “crossed a line” and stressed that Australia’s embassy in Tehran has been closed.
“Australia was attacked, and Australia was harmed,” said Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke.
Jewish Community on Edge
The attacks shook Australia’s Jewish community, home to the largest population of Holocaust survivors outside Israel.
In recent months, there has been a surge of antisemitic incidents, including:
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An arson attack on a Jewish day care center.
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Graffiti featuring swastikas and anti-Jewish slurs.
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Threats against Jewish-owned businesses.
Officials said Iran may be responsible for more incidents beyond the two publicly identified.
Israel Responds
Israel’s embassy in Australia welcomed the move, calling the terrorist designation of the IRGC “a strong and important step.”
The statement added: “Iran’s regime is not only a threat to Jews or Israel, it endangers the entire free world, including Australia.”
Call for Unity in Australia
Prime Minister Albanese urged Australians not to let Iran’s actions create division at home.
“We all want the killing in the Middle East to stop. But here in Australia, we must remain united, respecting people of all faiths and backgrounds.”
Wong echoed that message, warning Australians not to fall into “anger and tension” fueled by the war in Gaza.
Key Takeaways
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Iran accused of directing antisemitic arson attacks in Australia.
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Sydney kosher restaurant and Melbourne synagogue were targeted.
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Iranian diplomats expelled – first time since World War II.
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IRGC to be designated a terrorist organization in Australia.
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Jewish leaders warn of a surge in antisemitic incidents nationwide.
