Australia accuses Iran of being behind two antisemitic attacks, orders ambassador to leave

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Government says Iran directed 2024 attacks on Sydney kosher restaurant, Melbourne synagogue​

boy on a cycle looks on next to floral tributes and an Australian flag at the Adass Israel Synagogue after an attack in Melbourne on Dec. 10, 2024. It is one of two attacks that the Australian government alleges were directed by Iran. (Joel Carrett/Reuters)


Australia accused Iran on Tuesday of executing two antisemitic arson attacks in the cities of Sydney and Melbourne and gave Tehran's ambassador seven days to leave the country, its first such expulsion since the Second World War.

Since the Israel-Gaza war began in October 2023, Australian homes, schools, synagogues and vehicles have been targeted in antisemitic vandalism and arson, while Islamophobic incidents have surged.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) had gathered credible intelligence that Iran had directed at least two attacks.