Why Did Iran Condemn Australia's Designation of IRGC as 'State Sponsor of Terrorism'?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Iran strongly criticizes Australia's governmental actions.
- The designation of IRGC raises international law concerns.
- Australia cites security assessments as a basis for its decision.
- Iran vows to protect the reputation of its armed forces.
- The situation reflects tensions in international relations.
Tehran, Nov 28 (NationPress) The Foreign Ministry of Iran has vehemently criticized the Australian government’s decision to label the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) as a 'state sponsor of terrorism', calling it a 'disrespectful and unjustified' act.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Iranian ministry characterized the action as 'unlawful, unjustifiable, and in violation of international law' regarding national sovereignty, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
The statement further noted, 'This political maneuver by the Australian government sets a perilous and criminal precedent, influenced by Israeli interests.'
The ministry emphasized that the IRGC is an integral part of Iran's armed forces, which has played an 'unmatched role in safeguarding the nation's sovereignty and security against foreign threats while combating terrorism.'
It reiterated the Iranian government’s commitment to taking all necessary actions to protect the status and reputation of its military against any 'hostile labeling.'
Earlier that day, the Australian government officially designated the IRGC as a 'state sponsor of terrorism', claiming this decision followed assessments from the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation that 'the IRGC orchestrated attacks against the Jewish community in Australia.'
This announcement follows intelligence assessments indicating that the group orchestrated attacks targeting the Jewish community in Australia, with accusations against Iran for directing two antisemitic arson incidents: one at Lewis' Continental Kitchen in Sydney in October 2024 and another at the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne in December 2024.