Bloody Attack in Sydney; Where Does Iran Stand in the Incident?

According to Rokna, the events in Sydney targeting the Jewish community must be viewed within a broader context to answer some questions. Based on official information released by Australian authorities, this terrorist operation was carried out by a Pakistani father and son, and as of the preparation of this report, the death toll has reached 16. Australian authorities also reported the discovery of a ISIS flag in the vehicle of these two terrorists.

Swift Condemnation of the Attack by Iran

The Sydney attack was condemned by Iran shortly after it occurred. Esmail Baghai, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, posted a brief statement on Twitter condemning the attack. In the final line of his short post, he made a general reference that “terrorism and the killing of people, wherever it occurs, are rejected and condemned,” a statement that could be interpreted as alluding to Israel’s actions in various countries, from Iran to Lebanon and the Gaza Strip. Aside from this possible reference, some media highlighted that Israel’s actions in Gaza and the large-scale killing of civilians have had a significant negative impact on global public opinion.

Iran’s reaction is particularly important considering that in September this year, Australia expelled the Iranian ambassador and downgraded relations with Tehran due to allegations similar to those made in Sydney. Soon after, Israeli pressure to make accusations against Iran became evident. On December 6, Australia listed the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a state sponsor of terrorism, prompting a strong condemnation from Iran. In November, reports also surfaced claiming that Iran intended to assassinate the Israeli ambassador in Mexico, which was categorically denied by the Mexican government and security agencies.

Another noteworthy aspect of this incident was the discovery of a ISIS flag in the attackers’ vehicle. Beyond the historical confrontations between ISIS and Iran in the region, it is notable that ISIS has previously carried out similar attacks in European countries during occasions such as New Year’s Eve.

Anthony Albanese, Prime Minister of Australia, mentioned the discovery of this flag during his press conference – BBC.

Unusual Post by the Ambassador’s Son

Hours before the attack at Bondi Beach, a post appeared on the Twitter account of an individual named Ahmad Ghadiri, who is highly active on the social media platform. It was soon revealed that Ahmad Ghadiri is the son of Mohammad Hassan Ghadiri Abiyaneh, former Iranian ambassador to Australia and Mexico, and is currently recognized in Iran as a political analyst.

In Ahmad Ghadiri’s post, there was no call to violence and no reference to Australia. However, the timing of the post coinciding with the attack drew attention. Iranian social media noted that this post was highlighted in Israeli media and used for discussion.

Possibility of a False Flag Operation

Given Israel’s domestic situation, the increased pressure on Netanyahu, and the fragile security environment in the Middle East, the possibility of a false flag operation cannot be ruled out. Such operations are orchestrated by military, intelligence agencies, or armed groups in a way that causes other countries or parties to be perceived as responsible.

Immediately following the operation, Israeli media, citing security sources, suggested Iran’s involvement in the attack. This narrative emerged even as Australian authorities stated that a ISIS flag had been found in the attackers’ vehicle and that investigations are ongoing.