Synagogue arson suspect in court for attack Australia says ordered by Iran

FILE PHOTO: A boy on a cycle looks on next to floral tributes and an Australian flag at the Adass Israel Synagogue after an attack in Melbourne, Australia, December 10, 2024. Australia said Iran sought to disguise its involvement in two 2024 attacks, at the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne and on a kosher restaurant in Sydney, by using criminals and members of organised crime gangs. - AAP/Joel Carrett via Reuters

MELBOURNE: A man charged with setting fire to a Melbourne synagogue appeared in court on Wednesday (Aug 27) over an attack Australia says was orchestrated by Iran and has led to the expulsion of Tehran's ambassador.

Australia said on Tuesday Iran sought to disguise its involvement in two 2024 attacks, at the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne and on a kosher restaurant in Sydney, by using criminals and members of organised crime gangs.