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Melbourne Synagogue and restaurant targeted by arson, protests escalate
Arson attack on East Melbourne synagogue amid protests at Israeli-owned restaurant highlights rising antisemitism in the city.
Arson attack on East Melbourne synagogue amid protests at Israeli-owned restaurant highlights rising antisemitism in the city.
An arson attack targeted the East Melbourne Hebrew Congregation, putting worshippers at risk, but everyone evacuated unharmed. Authorities condemned the act as antisemitic terrorism, pledging support for the Jewish community and urging the public to provide footage to aid the investigation.
An arson attack occurred at the East Melbourne Hebrew Congregation on Albert Street.
A man used a flammable liquid to ignite the front door around 8pm on Friday, putting around 20 individuals inside the synagogue at risk.
All evacuated through the rear without injury, and damage was limited to the front entrance. Victoria Police have condemned the attack, emphasising that there is no place for antisemitic behaviour in society.
An arson chemist will investigate the site, and police are appealing for CCTV or dashcam footage to assist with their inquiry. This incident follows a previous arson attack on the Adass Israel Synagogue in December.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan stated her support for the Jewish community, calling the attack cowardly, particularly as it occurred on Shabbat. Police are in contact with synagogue representatives to provide support.
Hate crimes
Shadow Police Minister David Southwick, part of the Jewish community, noted the need to categorise these attacks as hate crimes.
He expressed concern that actions are affecting Melbourne residents unrelated to international conflicts. In an unrelated incident, about 20 protesters demonstrated outside Israeli-owned restaurant Miznon in Melbourne’s CBD, following a larger group of around 70.
One individual was arrested for hindering police, and others were questioned related to the incident. Anti-Defamation Commission Chair Dvir Abramovich labelled the synagogue fire as terrorism, calling for justice and protection for the Jewish community.