Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has revealed that Iran was responsible for at least two antisemitic attacks in Australia late last year. According to assessments from Australian intelligence agencies, these incidents targeted Lewis’ Continental Kitchen in Sydney on October 20, 2024, and the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne on December 6. Albanese indicated that ASIO believes Iran may have orchestrated additional attacks as well.
The Prime Minister described these acts as extreme and dangerous forms of aggression by a foreign nation on Australian territory, designed to disrupt social cohesion and incite division within the community. In response, Australia has expelled Iranian Ambassador Ahmad Sadeghi, and operations at the Australian embassy in Tehran have been suspended, with all diplomats now located in a safe third country.
Albanese also announced plans to legislate the designation of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organisation, stating that Australians desire peace in the Middle East without the conflict spilling into their homeland. He condemned Iran’s actions for fostering violence and antisemitism towards Jewish Australians and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to fighting against hate and violence.
This situation reflects broader concerns about safety and integrity within Australia’s diverse society, with the government taking a firm stance against external threats and reinforcing its support for community unity. The measures taken aim to convey a strong message that antisemitism and violence will not be tolerated in Australia.