Daijiworld Media Network - Tehran

Tehran, Aug 26: Iran’s Foreign Ministry sharply criticized Australia’s decision to expel its ambassador and three diplomats, calling the allegations of Iranian involvement in anti-Semitic attacks “baseless and invalid.” Spokesperson Esmail Baqaei warned that Tehran would respond reciprocally to any improper diplomatic moves.

Australia’s announcement came after its intelligence agencies linked Iran’s government to two anti-Semitic attacks last year—one at Lewis’ Continental Kitchen in Sydney and another at the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne. In response, Australia has suspended operations at its embassy in Tehran and plans to designate Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization.

At a press briefing, Baqaei rejected the accusations, stating, “Anti-Semitism has no place in our religion. This is a concept fabricated by Western powers, who should address their own histories.” He suggested Australia’s move was influenced by domestic unrest related to protests over the Gaza situation and aimed to deflect criticism of Israel.

Australian officials described the attacks as “extraordinary and dangerous acts of aggression” by a foreign state targeting Australia’s Jewish community. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and ministers emphasized that the government will take strong action to safeguard social cohesion and national security.

The diplomatic rift highlights rising tensions between the two nations amid broader geopolitical disputes. Tehran has promised to weigh its response carefully, signaling a possible escalation in bilateral relations.