Minister Expresses AUKUS Concerns Over University Partnership With Islamist Group
A federal MP has raised concerns about the University of Sydney’s agreement with a group designated as terrorists by the UK.
An attempt to reintroduce a judicial inquiry into antisemitism at Australian universities has brought to light alarming questions regarding what has been described as a significant national security issue for the country.
Julian Leeser, the Federal member for Berowra, addressed Parliament on June 25 in his push to reintroduce the Commission of Inquiry into Anti-Semitism at Australian Universities Bill 2024.
The bill focuses on addressing anti-Semitic activities at Australian universities, particularly those hosting pro-Palestinian demonstrations.
Despite the government’s previous reluctance to debate the bill, Mr. Leeser sought to reignite discussions by highlighting the University of Sydney’s ties to the Australian branch of the Islamist group Hizb ut-Tahrir.
Hizb ut-Tahrir defines itself as an Islamic political party working globally to uphold Islamic principles and has been branded a terrorist organization in the UK.
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He cited remarks from UK Minister of State for Security, Tom Tugendhat, who stated, “Free speech should not include promoting terrorism or celebrating terrorist acts.”
Mr. Tugendhat emphasized that it was “unacceptable” to portray Hamas as heroes of Palestine or view the events of Oct. 7 as a triumph.
In response, Mr. Leeser echoed the sentiment by agreeing with Mr. Tugendhat.
The Liberal MP highlighted that Hizb ut-Tahrir opposed democracy and propagated anti-Semitism.
Despite its negative reputation, Mr. Leeser pointed out that Hizb ut-Tahrir was exerting significant influence at the University of Sydney following discussions stemming from protests organized by the group.
He noted that all other groups complied and left upon request, except for Hizb ut-Tahrir, who resisted.
On their Instagram account, the group boasted of their resilience and subsequent negotiations with the university.
Of particular concern, Mr. Leeser emphasized that Hizb ut-Tahrir successfully secured a commitment from the university to establish a group to scrutinize its defense agreements and research activities.
“This constitutes a major national security challenge at our oldest university,” he declared in Parliament.
“It’s an extraordinary concession, especially when AUKUS agreements demand the focus and expertise of our top minds. Instead, Sydney University is allowing an extremist group, recognized as a terrorist organization by our oldest ally, to oversee every defense agreement.”
Mr. Leeser questioned the rationale behind collaborating with the University of Sydney post-agreement and accused the university of ignoring the group’s anti-Semitic acts on campus.
Dismissing the government’s crackdown on the swastika and Nazi salute as “virtue signaling,” Hizb ut-Tahrir was the first to announce their partnership with the University of Sydney.
“While the university may be celebrating its newfound collaboration with Hizb ut-Tahrir, its relationship with the Jewish community is severely strained,” Mr. Leeser highlighted, noting the exodus of Jewish staff and students from the university.
“In such circumstances, the government cannot remain passive,” he asserted.
University Refutes Claims of Sharing Sensitive Information
A spokesperson for the University of Sydney refuted allegations that its association with Hizb ut-Tahrir would compromise Australia’s security.
“Our top priority is the safety of our community, and we maintain constant communication with the police to ensure this,” the spokesperson stated in a response provided to The Epoch Times.
They further clarified that no campus incidents were reported following the events of Oct. 7 involving Hamas.
The university emphasized that they rely on government and police intelligence to identify extremist organizations and assured that they would act promptly in response to any potential threats.
Furthermore, the university pointed out that Hizb ut-Tahrir is not classified as a terrorist group in Australia, enabling its members to participate in rallies and events legally.
The spokesperson highlighted the university’s commitment to peaceful resolutions, citing similar partnerships offered by prestigious universities like Harvard and the University of Melbourne.
The university assured that the working group would not have access to sensitive data and would focus on human rights, with participants representing diverse university stakeholders.
Independent Member Calls for Terror Designation
On June 26, Independent Member for Wentworth Allegra Spender urged the government to explore listing the Islamic Republic of Iran as a terrorist entity.
She acknowledged the need to address legal considerations in categorizing Iran as a terrorist group under Australian law.
Ms. Spender raised her concerns in Parliament, stressing the impact of Iran’s support on conflicts affecting both Israelis and Palestinians.
“The Iranian government must be held responsible for fostering terrorism in the Middle East,” she asserted.
