Australia has taken a firm stance against Iran following allegations that the Islamic Republic was involved in several antisemitic attacks in Sydney and Melbourne. The Australian government confirmed the expulsion of two Iranian diplomats after its domestic intelligence agency, ASIO, concluded there was sufficient credible evidence indicating Iran’s involvement in these attacks. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized that Iran had attempted to conceal its role, but ASIO’s assessment confirmed its responsibility for the recent violence. The decision follows an earlier announcement by Australia to recognize Palestinian state, which has drawn sharp criticism from Israeli leaders.
The Australian government informed Iran’s ambassador to Australia shortly before Albanese’s announcement that they would be expelled. It also withdrew Australian diplomats posted in Iran to a third country. The prime minister also said Australia plans to designate Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization, a measure that has been widely supported by hardline factions within both political parties.
The move comes after Australia announced earlier this month that it plans to recognize Palestinian statehood at the United Nations General Assembly in September. The announcement triggered a scathing response from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who accused Australia of betraying Israel and abandoning Australia’s Jews. “History will remember Albanese for what he is: a weak politician who betrayed Israel and abandoned Australia’s Jews,” Netanyahu said.
Antisemitic incidents in both Melbourne and Sydney rose steeply following the October 7, 2023 massacre in Israel that triggered Israel’s ongoing offensive on Gaza. This has raised concerns about the growing influence of extremist groups and the potential for increased tensions in the region. The Australian government’s actions are seen as a significant step in addressing these concerns, though they have also drawn criticism from some quarters for their perceived alignment with Palestinian interests at the expense of Israel’s security.