Arson Attack on Melbourne Synagogue
In Melbourne, Australia, arsonists targeted a synagogue, igniting the doors while a congregation gathered inside. This incident comes just months after another synagogue in the same city was destroyed in a fire that injured worshippers.
According to police, a man approached the double front doors of the East Melbourne Hebrew Conference around 8 PM, set them ablaze, and approximately 20 worshippers who were sharing a meal for the Jewish Sabbath had to evacuate through the back door. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Firefighters managed to extinguish the flames before they spread further, as confirmed by the police.
Victoria’s Prime Minister, Jacinta Allan, remarked that both incidents were meant to “harm the Jewish community,” emphasizing that attacks on worship places are acts of hatred, particularly noting that assaults on Jewish places of worship indicate anti-Semitism.
Since October 7, 2023, Australia has witnessed a surge in anti-Semitic incidents, largely ignited by recent conflicts involving Hamas and Israel in Gaza.
Jewish and Muslim organizations, along with researchers focused on hate crimes, have reported significant increases in incidents affecting both communities. In response, the Australian government last year appointed a special envoy to address rising anti-Semitism and Islamophobia.
Last December, two masked men vandalized the Adas Islael Synagogue in southeastern Melbourne using incendiary devices, causing extensive damage and resulting in minor burns to some worshippers.
No arrests have been made in connection with that attack, though Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has condemned anti-Semitism in general.
The Victorian joint counter-terrorism team, consisting of local and federal police as well as Australia’s domestic intelligence agency, suspects the recent fire was politically motivated.
Victoria Police Commander Zorka Dunstan described the synagogue fire as a serious offense and mentioned that CCTV footage of the suspect has been released.
Dunstan stated, “While we acknowledge these crimes as despicable, we haven’t classified this incident as terrorism yet.” The investigation will consider the motives behind the act to determine its classification.
If deemed a terrorist act, it may lead to more substantial investigations and potentially harsher penalties.
President of the synagogue, Danny Segal, expressed his hope for solidarity from the broader Australian community, stating, “We aspire for peace and coexistence in this beautiful country. What was done is simply unacceptable, and, as Australians, we should all take a stand.”
In a related event, around 20 masked protesters disrupted another meal at an Israeli-owned restaurant in downtown Melbourne, resulting in broken windows. A woman was arrested for obstructing law enforcement.
Dvir Abramovich, chair of the Australian anti-Semitism task force, noted that these actions have caused widespread fear among the community, specifically mentioning chants against the Israeli Defense Forces.
He remarked, “Melbourne has suddenly become an unsafe place for Jews.”
Melbourne’s Mayor, Nicholas Reese, condemned both the synagogue and restaurant incidents, calling them “absolutely shocking” and emphasizing the need for communal unity against such acts.
The Israeli vice minister also condemned the synagogue fire, highlighting the alarming rise of anti-Semitic hate crimes within Australia.
Charlen Haskell extended her support to Melbourne’s Jewish community, reassuring them that Israel stands with them during this troubling time.
