A Melbourne man has been charged over the arson attack on a local synagogue, which authorities allege was directed by Iran. Ali Younes, 20, appeared in court after being accused of participating in the December firebombing of the Adass Israel Synagogue, an incident that injured a worshipper and caused extensive damage. The attack, along with a similar incident at a Sydney kosher restaurant, has led Australia to expel Iran's ambassador and sever diplomatic ties, citing credible evidence of foreign involvement.

Iran has denied the allegations, while Australian officials maintain that the attacks were orchestrated by Iran's Revolutionary Guard using proxies. No direct links to Iran have emerged in court proceedings so far, and terrorism charges have not yet been laid against the suspects. The investigation continues, with authorities increasing security for affected communities and urging Australians in Iran to leave the country due to escalating tensions.