The number of Iranian nationals holding diplomatic visas in Australia increased from 31 to 34 around the time security agencies foiled a plot targeting Iranian-Australian citizens onshore.
An Iranian foreign interference plot was foiled by Australia late last year, according to Home Affairs Minister Clare O'Neil.The Iranian embassy denies any wrongdoing and says Australian government hasn't provided evidence of its involvement
Three additional Iranian citizens had been granted diplomatic visas around the time that a foreign interference plot was uncovered by Australia's national security agencies.Iranian government attempt to conduct domestic surveillanceThe Australian authorities have refused to confirm any details concerning the cancellation of diplomatic visas or the names of people involved in the episode.
It has since been revealed that there were 31 Iranian citizens in Australia on diplomatic visas at the start of November, with the number increasing to 34 by December 23.Despite this, AAP is not aware of any suggestion that the three had their visas cancelled.The Iranian embassy has denied any wrongdoing and said the Australian government hasn't provided evidence to back up the allegations.
Asked whether anyone from the Iranian embassy or affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps was part of the plot, the government said it didn't comment on operational matters or on individuals due to privacy. The same response was given in relation to whether there were any known members or affiliates of the IRGC in Australia.
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