Sunrise host Nat Barr has confronted Foreign Minister Penny Wong over the government’s failure to designate Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organisation, despite being urged to do so over two years ago.
The controversy comes amid revelations that Iran was responsible for at least two antisemitic fire-bombings on Australian soil, including an attack on Lewis Continental Kitchen in Sydney and the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne.
Government’s Response to IRGC
In response to questions about the government’s delay in listing the IRGC as terrorists, Wong explained that the organisation was already sanctioned and that her government had taken stronger action against Iran than the previous government.
Wong also acknowledged that the Iranian ambassador had made unacceptable antisemitic remarks, leading to his expulsion.
She emphasized that the Iranian regime had “crossed a line” and that the government’s unprecedented action was necessary to protect Australian citizens.
Threat Level to Australia
When asked about the current threat level to Australia following the ambassador’s expulsion, Wong assured Australians that the country’s security agencies were working to ensure their safety.
She expressed confidence in the capabilities of ASIO, the AFP, and other agencies, which had uncovered the Iranian regime’s involvement in the attacks.
Wong added that while diplomatic relations with Iran were challenging, Australia would continue to act professionally and maintain a clear message to Iran: that its actions were unacceptable and would not be tolerated.
Diplomatic Relations with Iran
The Foreign Minister revealed that Australia had retained some working-level diplomats in Iran to deal with consular issues affecting Iranian-Australians.
However, she emphasized that the diplomatic relationship was in a difficult place and that Australia had suspended its operations in Tehran and removed Australian personnel from the country.
Wong reiterated that the government’s decision to expel the ambassador was unprecedented and reflected the seriousness of the situation.
She emphasized that Australia would continue to prioritize the safety and security of its citizens, particularly Jewish Australians who were directly affected by the attacks.