Australia designates Iran‘s IRGC as terrorist Entity Following Antisemitic Incidents
CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – Australia has officially listed Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization, citing the group’s involvement in attacks and threats against Jewish communities and individuals globally. The designation, announced today, May 16, 2024, significantly expands Australian sanctions against Iran and reflects growing international concern over the IRGC’s destabilizing activities.
The move comes amid heightened anxieties regarding antisemitism and escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly following the October 7th attacks on Israel and the subsequent conflict. Australian authorities point to the IRGC’s history of supporting and directing proxy groups, as well as its direct involvement in plotting attacks against Jewish targets, as justification for the listing. This decision aligns Australia more closely with the United States and other nations that have already designated the IRGC as a terrorist entity.
The IRGC,established after the 1979 Iranian Revolution,is a powerful military and political force within Iran. It operates independently of the regular Iranian armed forces and has been accused of numerous acts of terrorism,human rights abuses,and interference in regional conflicts. Australia’s designation encompasses the entire organization, including its Quds force, responsible for extraterritorial operations.
“The IRGC has been assessed as posing a real and credible threat to Australia, our allies and to international security,” stated Australian Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil. “This listing reflects our unwavering commitment to combating terrorism and protecting our communities.”
The listing will impose further financial sanctions and travel bans on IRGC members and entities, and criminalize association with the organization in Australia. Australian authorities are currently assessing the potential impact on citizens and businesses with legitimate dealings in Iran, and will provide guidance accordingly. The decision is expected to further strain already tense diplomatic relations between Australia and Iran.
