‘Lethal Targeting’: ASIO Warns 3 Foreign States Poised for Assassination Attempt

The ASIO chief warned of a ’realistic possibility' a foreign government could attempt to assassinate a dissident on Australian soil.

Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) Director General Mike Burgess poses for a portrait ahead of his annual threat assessment speech at ASIO headquarters in Canberra, Australia on Feb. 28, 2024. AAP Image/Mick Tsikas

Months after Canberra forced out Iran’s ambassador over its role in plots against Jewish targets, ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess has issued another alarm: more hostile governments are positioning to strike inside Australia.

“We believe there are at least three nations willing and capable of conducting lethal targeting here,” Burgess told the 2025 Lowy Lecture on Nov. 4, warning of a “realistic possibility” a foreign government could attempt to assassinate a dissident on Australian soil.