ASIO Reports at Least Three Nations Interfering in Australia
Spy chief Mike Burgess reveals that multiple countries, including Iran, are actively engaged in foreign interference in Australia.
Speaking on ABC Insiders, Australian Security Intelligence Organisation’s director-general mentioned, “I can think of at least three or four (countries) that are actively involved in foreign interference in Australia and diaspora communities, and some of them would surprise us.”
Burgess emphasized the effectiveness of dealing with foreign interference once identified.
Foreign interference and espionage stand as significant security concerns for the national intelligence agency, with countries like Iran attempting to threaten and intimidate diaspora communities.
Iran’s involvement was made public by the federal minister, as mentioned by Burgess.
Former cyber security Minister Clare O’Neil previously disclosed ASIO’s disruption of surveillance activities targeting an Iranian-Australian.
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Identifying other nations involved in foreign interference is under the jurisdiction of the new Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke according to Burgess.
In light of U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump’s claims of Iranian government hacking, Burgess urges caution in language used by politicians and media following the increase in terrorism threat level.
The threat level was elevated from “possible” to “probable” due to heightened risks of politically motivated violence.
Burgess highlights the rapid radicalization of individuals and urges a collective effort from all sectors of society to address the issue.
He stresses the role of families, community leaders, governments, and the media in combating terrorism and extremism with careful language and responsible debates.
