Iran pledges retaliation after Australia expels ambassador over anti-semitic allegations

Tehran: Iran has condemned Australia’s decision to expel its ambassador, vowing to take reciprocal diplomatic action in response to what it calls an unjustified move linked to recent pro-Palestinian protests and regional tensions.

Australia expelled Iranian Ambassador Ahmad Sadeghpour on Tuesday, citing allegations that Tehran was behind recent anti-Semitic attacks in Sydney and Melbourne. Iranian authorities have strongly rejected the claims, calling them “baseless” and politically motivated.

In a statement, Iran’s Foreign Ministry said, “Iran reserves the right to take reciprocal measures. This action by Australia is provocative, lacking in legal merit, and influenced by external pressure.”

The Australian government linked the expulsion to a sharp increase in anti-Semitic incidents across the country, pointing to the vandalism of Jewish institutions and threats made against the Jewish community. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated, “There were attempts to undermine social cohesion in Australia, and we will not tolerate it.”

Australia specifically referenced an arson attack on a Sydney synagogue in October 2024 and threats against Jewish groups as part of its justification for the expulsion. Officials say intelligence suggested potential foreign interference aimed at escalating tensions linked to the Israel-Gaza conflict.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong defended the decision as necessary for national security. “Our responsibility is to ensure Australians are safe at home, and that includes taking action when threats are supported or directed by foreign entities,” she said.

The move marks a rare diplomatic flashpoint between the two nations. In response, Iran has summoned Australia’s chargé d’affaires in Tehran and warned of “serious consequences” if the issue is not resolved diplomatically.

The developments come amid a broader global wave of protests and unrest triggered by Israel’s military actions in Gaza, which have drawn international condemnation and sparked demonstrations in several Western countries.

As tensions rise, both sides are expected to impose further diplomatic and possibly economic measures, potentially deepening the rift between Tehran and Canberra.