Global Tensions Rise Over Antisemitic Attacks

The Australian government has expelled two Iranian diplomats after alleging that Iran was behind recent antisemitic attacks in Sydney and Melbourne. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the country's domestic spy agency, ASIO, had gathered credible intelligence linking Iran to the attacks on a Sydney restaurant and a Melbourne synagogue. The move comes as Australia plans to designate Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization and recognize Palestinian statehood at the United Nations General Assembly. The decision has been met with criticism from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who accused Australia of betraying Israel.

The French government has summoned US Ambassador Charles Kushner to Paris after he accused France of not doing enough to combat antisemitism. Kushner, who is Jewish, wrote a letter to French President Emmanuel Macron stating that antisemitic incidents in France have been fueled by the French government's statements about recognizing a Palestinian state. The French foreign ministry rejected Kushner's allegations, stating that they are 'unacceptable' and violate international law. The US State Department has backed Kushner, saying he is 'doing a great job advancing our national interests in that role.' The incident highlights the differing views between the US and France on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with Macron being critical of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the US being a staunch supporter.

The Australian government has accused Iran of orchestrating two antisemitic attacks in Sydney and Melbourne last year. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) found Iran was behind the arson attacks on a kosher food company and a synagogue. In response, Australia is severing diplomatic ties with Iran, expelling its ambassador, and withdrawing its own diplomats. The government has also upgraded its travel warning to Iran to the highest level and plans to list Iran's Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organisation. The attacks are seen as attempts to undermine social cohesion and sow discord in the Australian community.