Australia Expels Iranian Diplomats Over Anti-Semitic Attacks

Australia’s government has informed Iranian diplomats that they must leave the country within seven days, citing their involvement in two anti-Semitic arson incidents in Sydney and Melbourne. This marks the first expulsion order issued by Canberra since World War II.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the findings of the intelligence agency as “deeply disturbing,” indicating that Iran was behind the attacks. One incident involved a fire at a kosher cafe located near Bondi, a beach suburb in Sydney, while another targeted the Adas Islael Synagogue in Melbourne in December 2024.

Ambassador Ahmad Sadegi and three other officials were notified of their expulsion only half an hour before the press conference where Albanese made the announcement. He labeled the actions as “amazing and dangerous acts of aggression” carried out by foreign agents on Australian soil.

Albanese emphasized that these acts were attempts to disrupt social harmony within the community and sow discord. The Australian government has officially labeled Sadegi as “Persona Non Grata,” and he and the others are required to depart swiftly.

In a related development, the Australian government has urged its citizens in Iran to leave the country if they can do so safely. This decision follows Australia’s announcement of plans to recognize a Palestinian state at the upcoming UN General Assembly, a move which had previously been criticized by Israel as potentially rewarding terrorism.

Albanese also mentioned that he received assurances from the Palestinian Authorities, including commitments for general elections and continued recognition of Israel’s right to exist. He advocates for a two-state solution as the best path toward resolving the ongoing violence in the Middle East and alleviating suffering in Gaza.