Australian Spy Chief Links Iran to Bondi Firebombing and Synagogue Attack

Australia’s top domestic intelligence official said an Australian citizen working for Iran orchestrated a firebombing at a Bondi restaurant and that a former Australian resident in Iraq directed an attack on a Melbourne synagogue. The statements came in the annual threat assessment delivered Wednesday night.

The assessment also covered espionage targeting the Aukus pact and attempts by at least five foreign regimes to coerce Australians living overseas to return home.

The intelligence chief said the Bondi firebombing occurred in October 2024 at Lewis’ Continental Kitchen. He said both operations were directed by individuals with strong ties to Australia who were seeking to promote hatred and encourage violence against Iran’s perceived enemies.

It cited a December terror attack at Bondi beach in which 15 people died. Officials said the environment is marked by concurrent threats from homegrown terrorists, foreign intelligence services and attempts to infiltrate critical infrastructure. The speech noted that a foreign spy posing as a consultant obtained two reports from an Australian security clearance holder on Australia’s relations with Pacific neighbours before the operation was disrupted.

The intelligence chief said Australians who want a safer country should show greater tolerance and give others a “fair go.” He added that the tolerance of intolerance, the growth of grievance and the radicalisation of minors require a whole-of-community response.