Australia Expels Iranian Ambassador Over Antisemitic Attacks

Australia has severed diplomatic relations with Iran following accusations that the Iranian government orchestrated two antisemitic attacks in the country. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the decision on August 26, 2025, stating that the Australian Security Intelligence Organization (ASIO) determined Tehran’s involvement in arson attacks targeting a kosher food company and a synagogue.

The attacks occurred at the Lewis Continental Kitchen in Sydney in October 2024 and at the Addas Israel Synagogue in Melbourne in December 2024. Albanese described these incidents as “extraordinary and dangerous acts of aggression orchestrated by a foreign nation on Australian soil.” He emphasized the significance of the findings, which suggest that Iran attempted to disguise its involvement while undermining social cohesion within Australia.

In response to the findings, the Australian government expelled Iranian Ambassador Ahmad Sadeghi and withdrew its diplomats from Iran, relocating them to a third country. A travel advisory was issued to Australians in Iran, urging them to consider leaving the country due to the heightened risk of arbitrary detention or arrest. The advisory noted that foreigners, including dual nationals, could face significant dangers.

Albanese pointed out that the past year has seen a sharp increase in antisemitic incidents in Sydney and Melbourne, which he linked to the ongoing Israel-Hamas War, which began in 2023. The Prime Minister stated, “ASIO has gathered enough credible intelligence to reach a deeply disturbing conclusion. The Iranian government directed at least two of these attacks.”

He further expressed the need to take decisive steps to protect Australian citizens and uphold national security. As part of this initiative, Albanese announced plans to designate Iran’s Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization. This group has faced accusations of international aggression over the years, though it consistently denies any involvement in such acts.

The announcement of the expulsion marks a notable diplomatic shift for Australia, as it is the first time the country has expelled an ambassador since World War II. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong indicated that while diplomatic relations are being curtailed, some channels would remain open to protect Australia’s interests.

The decision to act against Iran followed a public rebuke from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who criticized Albanese after the Australian government announced its formal recognition of a Palestinian state at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly. This led to reciprocal visa cancellations between Australian and Israeli officials.

In light of the recent developments, the Executive Council of Australian Jewry welcomed the decision to label the Revolutionary Guard a terrorist organization. A spokesperson stated that the group is “outraged” by the attacks, which targeted Jewish Australians and caused significant damage and distress in the community.

As tensions continue to rise between Iran and Australia, the implications of these actions could have far-reaching effects on diplomatic relations and regional stability. The Australian government remains vigilant in addressing threats to its citizens and ensuring the safety of its communities.