• Australia accuses Iran of directing antisemitic arson attacks in Sydney and Melbourne.
• Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announces the expulsion of Iran's ambassador, marking the first such action since WWII.
• Australia's intelligence agency links the attacks to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
• Iran denies the allegations, claiming Australia's actions are politically motivated.
• Foreign Minister Penny Wong states it is unacceptable for a foreign regime to orchestrate attacks on Australian soil.

Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on August 26 that the country will expel Iranian Ambassador Ahmad Sadeghi, accusing Iran of directing antisemitic attacks in Sydney and Melbourne. The decision follows a deep investigation by the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO), which indicated that Iran was responsible for arson attacks on the Lewis Continental Kitchen, a kosher cafe, in October 2024, and the Adass Israel Synagogue in December 2024. Albanese described the incidents as "extraordinary and dangerous acts of aggression orchestrated by a foreign nation on Australian soil," highlighting the gravity of the situation, according to Al Jazeera, Reuters, and BBC.

The move to expel the Iranian ambassador marks Australia's first such action since World War II, indicating a significant step in the country's diplomatic relations. Albanese stated, "It is totally unacceptable for a foreign regime to orchestrate or engage in violent acts on Australian soil," reinforcing the need for decisive action against these threats. The Australian government will also designate Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization in response to these incidents, as reported by Reuters, Channel News Asia, and Al Jazeera.

Iran has vehemently denied the accusations, arguing that the Australian government's actions are politically motivated. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei has expressed that the decision to expel the ambassador appears influenced by internal political developments in Australia, particularly in light of recent protests against Israel's actions in Gaza. Baghaei stated, "Any inappropriate and unjustified action on a diplomatic level will have a reciprocal reaction," reflecting Iran's intent to respond accordingly, according to TRT World and Africa News.

Wong emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, "Iran's actions are completely unacceptable," and urged Australians not to travel to Iran, further complicating consular assistance efforts for those currently in the country. Australia has issued a "do not travel" advisory for Iran, underscoring the risks posed to its citizens, articulated by Wong in various media statements including Africanews and Reuters.