Statement by the Islamic Republic of Iran’s Foreign Ministry regarding the Australian government’s decision to downgrade diplomatic ties with Iran

The Islamic Republic of Iran’s Foreign Ministry expresses regret over the Australian government's request for the Iranian ambassador and several diplomats to leave the country, considering the decision unjustifiable and contrary to the tradition of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

The ministry categorically rejects the accusation of promoting anti-Semitism against Iran and draws the Australian government's attention to the documented historical reality that anti-Semitism is fundamentally a Western-European phenomenon, which has manifested in various forms throughout different periods.

Nevertheless, in recent years, this concept has been misused to suppress any form of protest against occupation, apartheid, and genocide targeting Palestinians.

The Islamic Republic of Iran, while condemning the heinous crimes and ongoing genocide in Gaza, reminds all supporters and apologists of these atrocities of their responsibility.

It views the Australian government’s accusations against Iran and its targeting of the long-standing diplomatic relations between the two countries as aligned with the Israeli regime’s policy of diverting public attention from the genocide in occupied Palestine and escalating tensions in the region.

The Foreign Ministry of the Islamic Republic of Iran, while reserving its right to take reciprocal action, calls on the Australian side to reconsider this misguided decision and holds the Australian government accountable for the consequences of the move, including the difficulties it may cause for the educated Iranian community residing in Australia.