The Australian government on Wednesday rejected Israeli claims that its decision to expel Iran's ambassador was motivated by external pressure. Canberra maintains that the historic move is based solely on evidence linking Tehran to anti-Semitic attacks in the country.
"This is complete nonsense," Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke told ABC radio, responding to comments attributing Israel a role in the decision. He said evidence gathered by Australian intelligence showed that Iran directed at least two arson attacks targeting Jewish communities in Sydney and Melbourne, without the perpetrators on the ground realizing they were acting under its influence.
The expulsion of Iranian Ambassador Ahmad Sadeghi, who was given seven days to leave the country by Canberra, is the first time since World War II. It comes alongside a decision to classify the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization.
The Australian foreign minister also urged Australian nationals in Iran to leave the country "without delay," citing a climate of growing tensions and the risk of reprisals.
The incident comes as relations between Iran and several Western powers deteriorate amid accusations of interference and covert operations. For Canberra, it sends a clear message: any action threatening Australian national security will be met with a firm response, regardless of external pressure or diplomatic considerations.
