Australia has expelled its first ambassador since World War II, ordering the Iranian diplomat to leave the country. This decision follows intelligence findings that the Iranian government was involved in at least two antisemitic attacks in Australia. The Australian Security Intelligence Organization (ASIO) determined that Iran directed arson attacks on the Lewis Continental Kitchen, a kosher food establishment in Sydney, in October 2024, and on the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne in December 2024.

In a statement on August 26, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned these actions, calling them "extraordinary and dangerous acts of aggression orchestrated by a foreign nation on Australian soil." He emphasized that these attacks aimed to undermine social cohesion and create discord within the community, stating, "It is totally unacceptable."

In light of the situation, the Australian government has issued a warning to its citizens in Iran, advising them to consider leaving the country if it is safe to do so. The alert highlighted the risks of arbitrary detention or arrest for foreigners in Iran, including Australians and dual nationals. Consequently, Australia has raised its travel advisory for Iran to the highest level, advising against all travel to the country.

The expulsion of Iran's Ambassador to Australia, Ahmad Sadeghi, is part of a broader response to the rising antisemitic incidents in Australia, particularly following the October 7, 2023, massacre in Israel, which has led to increased tensions and violence against Jewish communities in both Sydney and Melbourne.

Prime Minister Albanese also announced plans to designate Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization. This move comes amid Australia's intention to recognize Palestinian statehood at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly, a decision that has drawn criticism from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Netanyahu accused Albanese of betraying Israel and abandoning the Jewish community in Australia, stating, "History will remember Albanese for what he is: A weak politician who betrayed Israel and abandoned Australia’s Jews."

This situation is ongoing, and further updates are expected.