Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has pledged strong action following a suspected arson attack on a synagogue in East Melbourne. On Friday night, a man reportedly poured liquid on the front door of the synagogue and set it on fire while approximately 20 people were dining inside.
Fortunately, all occupants were safely evacuated, and no injuries were reported. Authorities are now conducting a manhunt for the suspect behind this deliberate act.
Police Probe Link Between Synagogue Fire and Restaurant Riot Amid Rising Tensions
The police are also investigating whether the synagogue attack is connected to another violent incident that occurred the same night. A Jewish-owned restaurant in Melbourne’s business district, Miznon, was stormed by rioters who threw chairs, chanted “death to the IDF,” and caused significant disruption. Several perpetrators were arrested at the scene. This potential link between both attacks has raised concerns about coordinated antisemitic actions.
Australia Vows Crackdown After Synagogue Arson and Restaurant Riot Spark Antisemitism FearsThese incidents come amid a worrying increase in antisemitic attacks across Australia in recent months, largely attributed to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Tensions from the Middle East conflict have spilled over into Australian society, intensifying divisions and sparking acts of hate. Both Jewish and Muslim communities have taken to the streets in protest, and there has been a notable rise in both Islamophobia and antisemitism.
Australian Government Strengthens Laws and Reaffirms Commitment to Combat Rising Antisemitic Attacks
In response to these rising hate crimes, the Australian government has enacted tougher laws against hate-based violence and appointed a special envoy to combat antisemitism. Prime Minister Albanese reaffirmed the country’s stance by stating that “antisemitism has no place in Australia,” and vowed that those behind these acts would be held accountable. He also emphasized his government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of all communities.
Alex Ryvchin of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry described the events as a “severe escalation” of threats against the Jewish community. Israel’s Foreign Minister, Gideon Saar, urged Australia to intensify efforts to combat antisemitism, calling it a “toxic disease.”
These incidents reflect the broader impact of the Israel-Gaza conflict, which began after a deadly attack on Israel by Hamas on October 7, 2023. Since then, over 57,000 people have reportedly died in Gaza, fueling global tensions and political divisions far beyond the region.