Controversy has erupted in Australian political circles following local memorial events held after Iran’s former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed during U.S.-Israeli military operations.
It is understood that at least four Shia mosques and Islamic organisations in Sydney and Melbourne issued obituary notices and held public memorial services. The arrangements drew criticism from the New South Wales government and some Iranian-Australian community groups. At the same time, segments of the Iranian diaspora in Australia reportedly expressed celebration over Khamenei’s death.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese publicly condemned the organisations and the memorial events in an interview with the ABC, describing such activities as “inappropriate” and stating that the overwhelming majority of Australians would not take part. He said Australian society is founded on values of human rights, democracy and freedom, and that hatred or prejudice should not be imported into the country. He added that safeguarding national security and social cohesion must remain a priority.
The federal opposition has called for a criminal investigation. Shadow Defence Minister James Paterson noted that Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is listed as a terrorist organisation in Australia, and that Khamenei served as its highest authority. He said that if the memorial events involved praising or glorifying the organisation, or displaying its symbols, they could breach the law. He urged the Australian Federal Police to assess whether the events violated counter-terrorism legislation.
The Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) has previously indicated that the IRGC has been linked to activities planned within Australia. Legal experts said whether any offence has occurred would depend on the specific statements and conduct involved, as debate intensifies over how to balance national security concerns with freedom of expression.