In a shocking display of hatred, a synagogue in Melbourne was targeted by an arsonist, forcing worshippers to flee in terror. This attack—just seven months after a similar vile act—highlights a disturbing trend of escalating antisemitism on Australian soil. The very foundations of our communities are under threat from violent extremists who aim to instill fear.
On a seemingly peaceful Friday evening, a man ignited the double doors of the East Melbourne Hebrew Congregation, forcing around 20 congregants to evacuate. Fortunately, no one was injured. Firefighters swiftly extinguished the flames, but the message was loud and clear: places of worship must brace for a reality where they are no longer safe havens.
Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan denounced both incidents as deliberate attempts to terrorize Jewish families. Any assault on spiritual sanctuaries is unequivocally an act of hate. To target a Jewish place of worship is a direct manifestation of antisemitism, period.
Since the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, antisemitic incidents have surged across Australia. This spike in hate crimes speaks volumes about the growing climate of intolerance and violence. Jewish and Muslim communities alike have suffered, prompting the Australian government to appoint special envoys to confront this crisis head-on.
Last December, another attack saw masked criminals wreak havoc on the Adass Israel Synagogue, igniting a fire that left a worshipper with minor injuries. Shockingly, no one has been prosecuted for that incident, leaving a painful stain on our justice system. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese rightly attributed this violence to rampant antisemitism.
Authorities are investigating the recent fire as a politically motivated crime. Members of the Victorian Joint Counter-Terrorism Team have stated their commitment to uncovering the ideology behind such despicable acts.
Acting Victoria Police Commander Zorka Dunstan described this latest arson as “serious.” However, despite the severity, the police have yet to categorize it as a terrorist incident. Such a designation would bolster resources for the investigation and ensure harsher penalties for the perpetrators. The failure to immediately label these acts terror is concerning.
Synagogue president Danny Segal implored the broader Australian community to unify against this wave of hatred. He emphasized that the Jewish community seeks peace and coexistence—a noble sentiment that needs unwavering support from all Australians.
On the same night, Melbourne also witnessed another disturbing event, where masked protesters targeted an Israeli-owned restaurant, leaving diners shaken and a window shattered. Such incidents foster an environment of fear, robbing peaceful citizens of their right to safely enjoy their lives.
Dvir Abramovich, chair of the Anti-Defamation Commission, aptly stated, “Melbourne, for one night, stopped being a safe place for Jews.” Public officials, including Melbourne’s Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece, condemned these criminal acts as shocking and unacceptable.
Israel’s deputy foreign minister has forcefully condemned the rise of antisemitism in the heart of Australia, reaffirming solidarity with Melbourne’s Jewish community. “Israel stands with you,” she declared.
It’s time for all Australians to stand firm against hatred and division. Our communities will only thrive when we unequivocally reject violence and embrace unity, defending the fundamental rights of every individual to worship freely and live without fear.
