A synagogue in Melbourne was firebombed last week, prompting an investigation into what is being considered a likely terrorist attack. The incident is part of a disturbing series of antisemitic assaults that have left the Jewish community in Australia on edge. The Executive Council of Australian Jewry (ECAJ) reported 2,062 antisemitic incidents across the country between October 1, 2023, and September 30, 2024.
The first attack occurred at the East Melbourne Hebrew Congregation, where assailants set a fire outside the synagogue’s exterior doors. At the time, around 20 worshipers were inside partaking in a Shabbat dinner. The police have yet to officially classify the act as terrorism. Avi Yemini, chief reporter for Rebel News Online, noted that the fire brigade’s swift response prevented the synagogue from being destroyed, drawing parallels to the unsolved firebombing of the Adas Israel Synagogue last year.
Antisemitic Violence Escalates
Later that evening, a group of approximately 20 masked individuals attacked the Israeli-owned restaurant Miznon, terrorizing diners with chants of “death to the IDF (Israel Defense Forces)” and hurling chairs and glassware. According to Yemini, the protest escalated into violence against patrons, causing chaos and panic as diners fled for safety. Victoria Police arrested one protester, who was subsequently released with a summons.
In a related incident, Victoria Police are investigating a third attack involving the arson of three vehicles and graffiti on a nearby wall. While the police have not confirmed whether the graffiti was antisemitic, they described the incidents as having antisemitic undertones.
Community Leaders and Officials Respond
Alex Ryvchin, co-CEO of the ECAJ, issued a strong statement condemning the attacks and urging political leaders and Australians to denounce these crimes. He emphasized that those chanting for death and attacking places of worship are not peace activists but are driven by a violent ideology that must be confronted with the full force of the law.
“Those who chant for death are not peace activists. Those who would burn houses of prayer with families inside do not seek an end to war,” Ryvchin stated.
Gideon Sa’ar, Israel’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, also condemned the attacks, calling for the Australian government to take stronger measures against antisemitism. He highlighted the alarming frequency of such incidents in Australia and urged for decisive action to combat what he described as a “poisonous disease.”
Historical Context and Rising Concerns
The recent attacks are part of a broader trend of rising antisemitism in Australia, with the ECAJ documenting over 2,000 incidents within a year. This increase has sparked fear and anxiety within the Jewish community, which has called for greater protection and awareness from authorities.
Historically, Australia has been seen as a relatively safe haven for Jewish communities, but the recent surge in antisemitic incidents challenges this perception. The attacks in Melbourne have drawn attention to the need for more robust measures to ensure the safety and security of minority communities.
Between October 1, 2023, and September 30, 2024, the ECAJ counted 2,062 antisemitic incidents in Australia.
Looking Forward: Calls for Action
As the investigation into these incidents continues, community leaders and officials are calling for increased vigilance and stronger enforcement of laws against hate crimes. The Jewish community in Melbourne and across Australia is urging the government to take decisive action to prevent further attacks and to foster a more inclusive society.
The situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by minority communities worldwide in combating hate and ensuring their safety. The response of Australian authorities in the coming weeks will be crucial in addressing these concerns and restoring a sense of security among those affected.
