Australia’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, has pledged the government’s full support to ensure those responsible for recent shocking antisemitic attacks, including arson at Melbourne synagogues, face the “full force of the law.” These incidents mark a severe escalation in anti-Jewish sentiment across the country, occurring amidst heightened tensions related to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Authorities are actively investigating multiple attacks, including fires set at places of worship, and are exploring potential links and motivations behind the surge in hate-based crimes targeting the Australian Jewish community.
The disturbing wave of antisemitic incidents has prompted a significant response from law enforcement and national security agencies. Victoria Police have confirmed they are treating one recent synagogue attack as “likely terrorism,” enabling a coordinated effort with federal authorities. In parallel, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) has launched a dedicated national task force, known as Operation Avalite, specifically designed to investigate threats and violence directed towards the Jewish community and public figures. This concerted effort underscores the seriousness with which the government and law enforcement are approaching the current security landscape.
Arson Attacks Target Melbourne Synagogues
Melbourne has recently experienced multiple alarming attacks targeting Jewish places of worship. One such incident occurred on a Friday night at a synagogue in East Melbourne on Albert Street. An assailant reportedly poured liquid on the front door before setting it ablaze. Approximately 20 people were inside having dinner at the time. Fortunately, everyone was evacuated safely through the rear of the building, and no injuries were reported. Firefighters quickly contained and extinguished the fire, which was concentrated near the entrance. Police are actively searching for the individual responsible for this deliberate act.
Investigators are exploring whether the East Melbourne synagogue arson is connected to other incidents occurring around the same time. One notable event involved a protest at Miznon, a Jewish-owned restaurant located in Melbourne’s central business district (CBD). During the protest, rioters reportedly broke into the premises, throwing objects and chanting hostile slogans, including “death to the IDF [Israel Defense Forces].” Some individuals were taken into custody at the scene. While the connection between the synagogue fire and the restaurant disturbance is still under investigation, both incidents highlight a disturbing trend of targeting Jewish sites and businesses.
In a separate, but equally concerning incident, the Adass Israel Synagogue in Ripponlea was also deliberately set on fire early on a recent Friday morning. According to initial reports, a congregant arriving for morning prayer witnessed two masked individuals pouring an accelerant into the building and igniting it before fleeing. This attack caused significant damage to the synagogue building. Although no serious physical injuries were reported, the emotional impact on the community is profound. Victoria Police Detective Inspector Chris Murray described this attack as “deliberate” and “targeted.”
Escalation of Antisemitism Across Australia
These arson attacks in Melbourne are not isolated events. They are part of a broader and increasingly severe pattern of antisemitic incidents sweeping across Australia. Over the past few months, there has been a sharp uptick in anti-Jewish hate crimes, ranging from vandalism and graffiti to arson and physical intimidation. This surge is widely attributed to the heightened geopolitical tensions stemming from the Israel-Hamas war.
Examples of this concerning trend have been documented in Sydney, illustrating the national scope of the problem. Over a recent three-month period, Jewish-owned businesses, synagogues, and residential properties have been targeted. Incidents include the destruction of a Kosher cafe by fire, the spray-painting of numerous vehicles and buildings with anti-Israel slogans and swastikas, and the targeting of homes, including the former residence of a prominent Jewish community leader. Graffiti has included vile messages such as “Kill Israiel [sic],” “F* the Jews,” and “Hitler on top Allah.”
The nature of these attacks has also escalated in severity. Authorities have noted the increasing use of accelerants in arson attempts, indicating a deliberate intent to cause significant damage and harm. The targeting of synagogues with swastikas and violent messages is a particularly chilling echo of historical persecution. These events have generated deep concern within the Australian Jewish community, with leaders describing the situation as unprecedented in recent history.
Government and Police Response Intensifies
The Australian government has strongly condemned the rise in antisemitism and the recent attacks. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been unequivocal in his stance, stating emphatically that “Antisemitism has no place in Australia.” He has vowed that the full weight of the law will be brought against those responsible for these “shocking acts.”
In response to the escalating threat, the government has taken several steps. A special envoy to combat antisemitism was appointed previously, and tougher laws against hate crimes have been passed. However, the recent attacks have spurred further action. Following the Adass Israel attack, Victoria Police Commissioner Shane Patton indicated the incident was being treated as “likely terrorism,” a designation that allows for enhanced coordination and resource deployment involving state and federal counter-terrorism units, including ASIO and the AFP.
The federal “Operation Avalite” task force, comprising agile and experienced counter-terrorism investigators, has been established under the AFP. This task force has a national mandate, specifically focusing on investigating and prosecuting threats, violence, and hatred directed at the Australian Jewish community and parliamentarians. It acts as a “flying squad,” deployable across the country as needed.
Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus has voiced grave concern over the current level of antisemitism in Australia, describing it as the highest he has witnessed in his lifetime. He affirmed the government’s resolute commitment to supporting the Jewish community during this difficult period. ASIO, Australia’s security intelligence organisation, is also assisting police investigations and conducting its own inquiries to assess any broader ongoing threat, although the national terrorism threat level remains at “probable” at this stage. The Prime Minister has also committed to visiting the attacked synagogue and has spoken with Jewish community leaders and the Special Envoy for anti-Semitism.
Political Dimensions and Underlying Tensions
The recent surge in antisemitic incidents in Australia is inextricably linked to the volatile political climate surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict. This conflict has fueled protests and tensions within both the Jewish and Muslim communities in Australia, leading to a noticeable increase in both antisemitism and Islamophobia.
The background to the current Middle East conflict often cited includes the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in significant casualties and hostage-taking, and the subsequent military campaign by Israel in Gaza, which has led to substantial loss of life according to figures from the territory’s health ministry. This complex and tragic situation abroad has had direct and damaging repercussions on social cohesion within Australia.
The political response to the attacks has also highlighted underlying tensions. Following one of the synagogue arsons, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a strong condemnation, which also included criticism of the Australian Labor government, linking the attack to what he described as their “extreme anti-Israeli position.” Netanyahu specifically cited Australia’s support for a UN resolution concerning Israeli presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and the prevention of a former Israeli minister from entering Australia as examples of this stance, concluding that “Anti-Israel sentiment is antisemitism.”
Prime Minister Albanese defended Australia’s position, noting that its UN vote aligned with many other nations, including key allies, and reiterated the government’s support for a two-state solution. He also pushed back against attempts to politicize the attacks, emphasizing the need for national unity in condemning antisemitism and supporting the affected community. State leaders have also called for national discussions on how best to combat the rising tide of anti-Jewish hate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What recent antisemitic attacks have occurred at Melbourne synagogues?
Melbourne has experienced multiple antisemitic attacks targeting synagogues. One involved arson at the front door of an East Melbourne synagogue on a Friday night, where about 20 people were inside but safely evacuated. Another incident saw the Adass Israel Synagogue in Ripponlea deliberately set on fire early on a Friday morning by two masked individuals using accelerant, causing significant damage. These events are part of a disturbing pattern across Australia.
How is the Australian government responding to the rise in antisemitism?
The Australian government has strongly condemned antisemitism and the recent attacks. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has vowed that perpetrators will face the “full force of the law.” The government has appointed a special envoy to combat antisemitism and passed tougher hate crime laws. Following recent arsons, Victorian Police are treating one incident as “likely terrorism,” and the Australian Federal Police (AFP) has launched a national task force, Operation Avalite, to investigate threats against the Jewish community.
Why are antisemitic incidents increasing in Australia?
The surge in antisemitic incidents in Australia is largely linked to the tensions arising from the Israel-Hamas war. The conflict has become a volatile political issue within Australia, leading to protests and increased hostility. This geopolitical situation has fueled a sharp rise in anti-Jewish sentiment and related hate crimes, including vandalism, arson, and intimidation targeting Jewish individuals, businesses, and institutions across the country.
The recent spate of attacks underscores a critical need for vigilance and robust action to protect Australia’s Jewish community. The coordinated response from law enforcement and national security agencies, alongside the Prime Minister’s strong condemnation, signals a determination to confront this growing threat. However, community leaders emphasize that continued efforts are essential to address the root causes of this escalating hatred and ensure the safety and security of all Australians.
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