Australia Declares Iran’s IRGC a Terrorist Organization, Expels Ambassador

Australia has designated the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of Iran as a terrorist organization. This decision led to the expulsion of the Iranian ambassador and the severing of diplomatic ties. The move follows an investigation by Australia’s intelligence agency, ASIO, which accused Iran of orchestrating anti-Semitic attacks, specifically targeting the Louis Continental Kitchen in Sydney and the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne. The IRGC, a powerful military and intelligence unit established after the 1979 Islamic Revolution, is already considered a terrorist organization by several other countries. Its initial objectives were to protect the Islamic revolution, deal with internal and external threats, and maintain religious control over the military. The IRGC’s influence extends beyond military operations, encompassing politics, education, and the economy. It is known for its loyalty to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and has been involved in significant missile programs and other military capabilities. Countries like the United States, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Paraguay have also designated the IRGC as a terrorist entity. The IRGC is often considered more powerful than the Iranian president and exerts considerable influence on foreign policy, managing secret networks and contributing to Iran’s oil exports.