Arson Attack on Melbourne Synagogue Prompts Strong Response from Australian PM

Melbourne, Australia – Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has vowed to bring the "full force of the law" against those responsible for an arson attack on the East Melbourne Hebrew Congregation synagogue on Friday night. The incident, which occurred while approximately 20 people were dining inside, saw a man pour liquid on the synagogue’s front door before setting it alight. No injuries were reported, and all individuals inside were safely evacuated.

Authorities have arrested 34-year-old Angelo Loras from Toongabbie, near Sydney, in connection with the attack. Loras faces charges of arson and reckless conduct endangering life and is scheduled to appear in court. Police are also investigating a potential link between this incident and an attack on the same night at Miznon, a Jewish-owned restaurant in Melbourne’s business district. Rioters stormed the restaurant, throwing chairs and chanting anti-Israel slogans, including “death to the IDF [Israel Defense Forces].” Several attackers were arrested at the scene.

The incidents come amid a surge in antisemitic attacks in Australia, fueled by tensions surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict. Prime Minister Albanese condemned the attack, stating, “Antisemitism has no place in Australia. Those responsible for these shocking acts must face the full force of the law, and my government will provide all necessary support toward this effort.” The Australian government has taken steps to address rising antisemitism, including appointing a special envoy to combat hate crimes and passing stricter laws against such acts. Alex Ryvchin, co-chief executive of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, described the attacks as a “severe escalation” targeting the Jewish community. Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Saar also called for stronger action, urging the Australian government to do more to combat “this toxic disease.” The Middle East conflict, particularly Israel’s military campaign in Gaza following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, has intensified divisions in Australia. The Gaza health ministry reports over 57,000 deaths since the conflict began, while the initial Hamas attack killed around 1,200 people and took 251 hostages. These events have sparked protests from both Jewish and Muslim communities in Australia, alongside a rise in both antisemitism and Islamophobia.

Police continue to investigate the motives behind the synagogue and restaurant attacks, as the government pledges to crack down on hate-driven violence.