Australia on Tuesday accused Iran of directing at least two antisemitic attacks in the country, expelling the Iranian ambassador to Canberra in response.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Australia’s domestic intelligence agency has “credible intelligence” that Iran was behind two attacks on Jewish sites in Melbourne and Sydney last year.
“These were extraordinary and dangerous acts of aggression orchestrated by a foreign nation on Australian soil,” Albanese told reporters on Tuesday, adding that it was considered likely Iran had directed other attacks as well.
“They were attempts to undermine social cohesion and sow discord in our community,” Albanese said. “It is totally unacceptable, and the Australian government is taking strong and decisive action in response.”
Australia has closed its embassy in Iran, with all its diplomats already out of the country, he said. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps will also be listed as a terrorist organization, Albanese said.
Australia has struggled to address a surge in antisemitic attacks on Australian homes, schools, synagogues and vehicles since the Israel-Hamas war began in October 2023.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
