Australia Expels Iranian Ambassador Amid Rising Tensions and Attacks

In a significant diplomatic move, Australia has expelled Iran's ambassador, Ahmad Sadeghi, amid accusations of Tehran directing antisemitic attacks in Sydney and Melbourne. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke has dismissed claims that Israeli influence prompted this expulsion, underlining that Australia's decision was independent and based on its own intelligence assessments.

Tensions between Australia and Israel had previously escalated following Canberra's recognition of a Palestinian state. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had criticized Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, accusing him of betraying Israel. However, Australia's recent actions come in response to security concerns, not these political disagreements.

Iran's alleged involvement in the arson attacks has been consistently denied by Tehran, labeling such accusations as Western hostility. Meanwhile, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong has advised Australian nationals in Iran to return home, as the government has decided to close its embassy there, citing safety concerns for its citizens.