Increased tension between Iran and Australia following a diplomatic dispute over suspected arson incidents
In a significant development, the Islamic Republic of Iran has reduced the level of Australia's diplomatic presence in Iran, following a series of actions taken by Australia. This move comes as a response to Australia's decision to expel the Iranian ambassador from Canberra, marking the first such move since World War Two.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced that operations at Australia's embassy in Tehran have been suspended, but assured that all Australian diplomats in Iran are safe in a third country. However, Iranian officials have not commented on the suspension of operations at the Australian embassy in Tehran.
Iranian officials, including Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kan'ani, have vehemently denied the Australian accusations of antisemitism and involvement in antisemitic attacks on Jewish sites in Australia. Kan'ani described the accusation as ridiculous and baseless. The Islamic Republic of Iran has also not been accused by any other Western government of carrying out hostile covert activities on foreign soil, as Australia has.
Despite the strained relations, Iranian officials have made it clear that they do not welcome the deterioration in bilateral relations with Canberra. Tehran's embassy in Canberra is continuing to provide consular services, indicating that the diplomatic relationship is not completely severed.
The expulsion of the Iranian ambassador by Australia is a notable example of a Western government accusing Iran of carrying out hostile covert activities on foreign soil. The position of the Islamic Republic of Iran's ambassador to Australia was previously held by Ahmad Sadeghi, who was expelled in August 2025 following the accusations.
As the situation continues to evolve, the Australian Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, has not publicly responded to Iran's denial of the accusations. It remains to be seen how this diplomatic spat between Australia and Iran will unfold in the coming days and weeks.
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