Wed Jan 14 04:24:26 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Iraqi Officials Arrest Man Wanted by Australian Police in Connection to Synagogue Arson and Other Crimes

The Story

Iraqi authorities have apprehended Kazem Hamad, a person of interest sought by the Australian Federal Police (AFP) in connection to a series of fire bombings, including an antisemitic attack on a Melbourne synagogue in December 2024. AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett identified Hamad as a major threat to national security. The arrest stemmed from information provided by the AFP to Iraqi law enforcement, although Iraqi officials stated the arrest was made as part of an independent drug investigation.

Hamad’s arrest marks a significant development in an ongoing investigation into arson attacks and related criminal activity in Australia. The investigation gained momentum after Australia expelled Iran’s ambassador in August 2025 following the discovery that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps funded individuals allegedly responsible for the synagogue attack. Hamad, who had previous drug trafficking convictions in Australia, was deported to Iraq in 2023.

Key Points

  • Kazem Hamad has been arrested in Iraq at the request of Australia.
  • Hamad is a person of interest in arson attacks, including the December 2024 antisemitic attack on the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne.
  • Australia expelled Iran’s ambassador in August 2025 after linking the synagogue attack’s funding to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
  • Hamad was previously convicted of drug trafficking and deported from Australia in 2023.
  • The arrest was made as part of a drug investigation according to Iraqi officials, following information provided by the Australian Federal Police.

Key Takeaways

  • International cooperation is crucial in combating transnational crime, including politically motivated attacks.
  • The link between Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and the synagogue arson highlights the potential for state-sponsored terrorism abroad.
  • Previous criminal convictions and deportation do not necessarily prevent individuals from remaining a threat to national security.
  • Even seemingly separate criminal investigations can intersect and contribute to larger security concerns.

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