Australian Mosques Mourn Iranian Leader, Sparking Condemnation and Debate
Mosques across Australia held Friday prayers for the first time since Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in US-Israeli strikes over the weekend, prompting condemnation from political leaders and the Jewish community. The commemorations have ignited a national conversation about freedom of speech, national security, and the glorification of figures accused of supporting terrorism.
Controversial Mourning Ceremonies
A number of Shiite mosques and Islamic institutions in Sydney and Melbourne held public memorials and prayer sessions to mourn the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. These gatherings included special prayer sessions and livestreams offering condolences on the “martyrdom” of the supreme leader. The Masjid Arrahman in Kingsgrove, Husaineyat Sayeda Zaynab in Banksia, and the Arncliffe-based Flagbearer Foundation were among the Sydney organizations hosting these events. Similar commemorations took place at the El Zahra Islamic Community Centre in Melbourne’s Hoppers Crossing.
Condemnation from Political Leaders and Community Groups
The mourning ceremonies have drawn strong criticism from NSW Premier Chris Minns, who described the act of mourning a “tyrant” as “atrocious.” Alex Ryvchin, Co-CEO of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, called for a criminal investigation into any mosque honoring Khamenei, citing concerns about the glorification of a leader whose forces have been linked to terrorist attacks in Australia. Ryvchin emphasized that such actions cannot be allowed to occur without consequence.
Government Response and Security Concerns
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, however, has stated he would not direct security agencies to investigate the mosques, emphasizing his commitment to “promoting social unity” and avoiding division. He affirmed that security agencies would continue their function without “ongoing running commentary.”
Khamenei’s Legacy and Australian Law
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei led the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which the Albanese government designated a state sponsor of terrorism in 2025. Under Australian law, specifically Part 5.3A of the Criminal Code, it is an offense to “associate with members of” or “provide support to” a state sponsor of terrorism. The Department of Home Affairs clarified that the Criminal Code Amendment (State Sponsors of Terrorism) Act 2025 focuses on “foreign state entities.”
Journalist Confrontation at Sydney Mosque
A Sky News reporter, Matt Taylor, encountered a hostile reception while attempting to report on the commemorations at the Al Zahra Mosque in Arncliffe. Taylor and his team were warned to leave quickly by worshippers who refused to answer questions about the US-Israeli strikes on Iran and their views on the late Ayatollah. Worshippers reportedly filmed the Sky News team and indicated their presence was unwelcome.
Ongoing Debate
The events have sparked a broader debate about the balance between freedom of religious expression and the need to condemn support for individuals and organizations linked to terrorism. The Australian government’s response, prioritizing social unity over direct intervention, has also become a focal point of discussion.