Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced the expulsion of Iran’s ambassador to Australia, Ahmad Sadeghi, following intelligence findings that Tehran was behind antisemitic attacks on the Jewish community.

Albanese revealed that the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) concluded Iran had directed the December 6 attack on the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne. “ASIO assesses it [Iran] was behind the attacks … the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne on December 6 last year,” the prime minister said.

Calling the findings “disturbing” and the attacks “appalling,” Albanese confirmed that the ambassador had been formally informed of his expulsion. In addition, Australia has suspended operations at its embassy in Tehran.

The decision marks a sharp escalation in diplomatic tensions between Canberra and Tehran, reflecting both security concerns and solidarity with Australia’s Jewish community.

The Iranian government has not yet issued a public response, but the move is expected to heighten strain in already fragile relations. International observers note the expulsion could also influence Australia’s alignment with Western allies calling for stronger measures against Tehran’s regional activities.