Australia Expels Iranian Ambassador Over Alleged Terror Attacks

Australia expelled Iranian ambassador Ahmad Sadeghi, the first ambassador to be expelled since World War II, after its intelligence agency ASIO found credible evidence that the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps directed at least two antisemitic attacks on Jewish institutions in Sydney and Melbourne. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese defended the expulsion and revealed that laws are being drafted to list the IRGC as a terrorist organization, criticizing the previous coalition government for not doing so despite advice from the Department of Home Affairs. Sadeghi denied Iran's involvement, described the state as peaceful, and expressed affection for the Australian people during his departure, while men accompanying him confronted journalists aggressively. The expulsion has raised concerns about potential backlash against Australians of Iranian heritage, with community leaders warning of verbal abuse and intimidation. Australian officials also warned about risks to people with dual citizenship or Australians traveling through Iran, who could be used as leverage in retaliation. Diplomatic tensions remain high, with Australia balancing the need to address security threats while managing its complex relationship with Iran.