A series of shocking anti-Semitic attacks in Melbourne has prompted widespread condemnation and urgent action from the Victorian government.
Premier Jacinta Allan has announced the creation of an “Anti-Hate Taskforce” to coordinate responses to rising extremist and violent protests following the firebombing of a synagogue and a string of related hate crimes.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strongly denounced the attacks, calling them “severe hate crimes that must be uprooted” and urged the Australian government to act decisively.
The incidents began on Friday with a suspicious fire at the East Melbourne Synagogue. Later that day, pro-Palestinian demonstrators chanted “Death to the IDF” at a CBD rally, and masked vandals attacked an Israeli restaurant. By Saturday, anti-Semitic graffiti was found on three vehicles outside a Jewish-owned business in Greensborough, all of which were set ablaze.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke described the events as “an attack on Australia,” warning that such acts inflict psychological harm not just on the Jewish community but on the broader nation. “Any chant beginning with the word ‘death’ is steeped in bigotry,” he said.
The new taskforce, which includes Premier Allan, Police Minister Anthony Carbines, Victoria Police, and Melbourne Lord Mayor Nick Reece, will review legislative reforms and policing strategies. A major focus will be on the implementation of the new Anti-Vilification and Social Cohesion Act and potential new powers to combat extremist protests.
Despite initial criticism for not visiting the targeted synagogue sooner, Ms Allan will attend the site on Monday, after discussions with its leadership. Opposition MPs have blasted the government for slow responses and “weak leadership.”
Victoria Police arrested Angelo Loras, 34, in relation to the synagogue fire. Authorities have yet to confirm if the three attacks are connected but agree they are all rooted in anti-Semitism.
The Jewish community and international leaders are watching closely as Victoria tries to curb a disturbing trend of hate-based violence.
