Australia has taken a strong, brave lead in calling out Iran’s orchestration of antisemitic attacks. These rear-enders were from the ill-fated rollout in Sydney and Melbourne last year. The Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO), the Canberra-based domestic intelligence agency, seized control of the investigation and prioritized it. Their actions turned into diplomatic disaster for Iran.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said that Australia’s inquiry was key in identifying Iran’s connections to the attacks. He emphasized the thoroughness of the investigation, stating, “No, it was primarily ASIO’s investigation, and ASIO came to this determination.” This investigation uncovered the connections between the attackers and the money fueling these attacks. That web of complicity spanned many levels.
Diplomatic Repercussions
Given these revelations, Australia has since closed down its embassy in Tehran. In addition, all non-essential diplomats at the Australian embassy have reportedly been evacuated from the country as a precautionary crisis management measure. Now as a serious matter, Australia’s commitment to the protection of its diplomatic personnel is commendably robust. The impact of this action goes beyond Iran’s malfeasance to raise grave security implications.
After the findings of the investigation were made public, Australia kicked out Ahmad Sadeghi, the Iranian ambassador and three other Iranian officials. They now only have seven days to depart the country. The expulsion is a particularly strong diplomatic step. It recognizes that Iran needs to be held accountable for its suspected role in orchestrating this kind of antisemitic violence.
“They have been able to trace the whole line-up, if you like, from the perpetrators who physically committed the crimes, the actions, right through to the funding of those criminal acts.” – Anthony Albanese
Terrorism Designation
Now, Australia is on the verge of making the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) a banned terrorist organization. This designation, subject to legislative approval, is a testament to Australia’s authoritative stand against those who promote violence and antisemitism. The IRGC likely coordinated the antisemitic attacks in Australia using a range of third parties, or “cut-outs,” further obfuscating the investigation’s terrain.
The repercussions of this designation could result in the expansion of sanctions and international pressure on Iran’s malign activities abroad. Australia’s positive steps show their commitment to fighting antisemitism here at home and protecting their citizens from antisemitism abroad.
Investigative Findings
After antisemitic attacks erupted in streets of major cities, rattling our own local communities, we were shocked. This explosion of violence prompted an equally explosive government response. According to reports the perpetrators were paid for their roles in these acts of violence. This trend is particularly troubling, considering how financial incentives are stoking these hate-fueled crimes.
Australia is still in the process of charting its diplomatic course with Iran. ASIO’s investigation into these incidents will inform policy and strategic discussions on international relations far beyond what has already been covered. The government will continue to be watchful against these threats to our security and the safety of all Australians.
