Tehran strongly condemns Canberra’s move to expel its ambassador and halt embassy operations. Iran denies involvement in antisemitic activities calling accusations baseless. Foreign ministry labels decision unjust and against diplomatic norms, warning of countermeasures.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong states government reached verdict after lengthy investigation. Israel welcomes Albanese administration’s action.
Recent allegations link Iran to arson attacks on Jewish synagogues in Sydney and Melbourne. Australia announced expulsion of Iranian Ambassador Ahmad Sadeghi, ordering him and three officials to leave within seven days.
On Wednesday, Sadeghi appeared publicly for first time since announcement. Leaving Iranian embassy in Canberra, he expressed affection for Australians.
Iran reacts sharply rejecting claims of antisemitic involvement. Ministry statement calls antisemitism Western political tool used for years. It accuses West of diverting attention from Palestinian occupation, racism, and mass killings.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi brands Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese weak leader. Wong responds by saying Iran clearly crossed boundaries.
Analysts see this straining over five decades of diplomatic ties between nations. Tensions not new; countries endured ups and downs through uranium trade in 1960s, Cold War, Islamic Revolution, Iran-Iraq War, nuclear program, and hostage diplomacy.
Read more: US Imposes 50% Tariff on India: Modi Calls for Domestic Production Amid High-Level Talks
2015 nuclear deal briefly warmed relations, but Trump withdrawal shattered them again.
