Iran has promised to take reciprocal action after Australia expelled its ambassador, accusing Tehran of involvement in antisemitic arson attacks in Sydney and Melbourne.

The Iranian foreign ministry strongly rejected the allegations, saying any unjust diplomatic moves would be met with an equal response.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Iran was behind the torching of a kosher café in Sydney’s Bondi area in October 2024 and a major fire at Melbourne’s Adass Israel Synagogue in December.

While there were no injuries, both attacks caused property damage. In response, Australia declared Iranian ambassador Ahmad Sadeghi “persona non grata” and ordered him and three other diplomats to leave within seven days.

Canberra also recalled its ambassador from Tehran and temporarily closed its embassy, which had been in operation since 1968.

Iran suggested Australia’s actions were influenced by domestic politics, particularly protests against Israel’s war in Gaza. Officials implied that Canberra might be trying to make up for what it sees as limited criticism of Israel.

The situation has sharply increased diplomatic tensions, with both countries recalling envoys and Iran warning of further countermeasures. Observers worry about the impact on diplomacy and the safety of foreign missions in both nations.