Synagogue Attack Melbourne, Australia

Australian Synagogue Targeted in Suspected Arson Attack

Worshippers were forced to flee Melbourne's Adass Israel synagogue early Friday morning when the building was set on fire in what Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned as an "act of hate."

Firefighters responded to the blaze in Ripponlea, in the city's southeast, just after 4:00 a.m. local time (17:00 GMT Thursday) to find the synagogue engulfed in flames. Community leaders reported that several people were inside for morning prayers at the time of the attack. Witnesses alleged that firebombs were thrown, and one individual sustained injuries as the fire caused significant damage to the building.

Police have confirmed that the fire was deliberately lit but are still investigating the motive. A witness described seeing two masked individuals spreading accelerant inside the synagogue before the fire erupted. Victoria Police have called on the public to assist with information, including any CCTV or dashcam footage from the area.

Prime Minister Albanese decried the attack, stating that it was “clearly aimed at creating fear in the community.” He emphasized zero tolerance for antisemitism, adding, “The people involved must be caught and face the full force of the law.” Federal authorities have pledged support for the investigation.

Benjamin Klein, a synagogue board member, described the harrowing scene as worshippers heard banging on doors and windows before flammable liquids were ignited. Yumi Friedman, who was inside during the attack, suffered burns when attempting to fight the fire after glass from a smashed window flew into the building.

Victoria Police Detective Inspector Chris Murray confirmed that significant resources were being allocated to the investigation, with increased patrols planned in the area to reassure the community. "We're going to do our best to ensure they can return to their synagogue without fear," he said.

The attack comes amid what Jewish leaders describe as a disturbing escalation in antisemitic incidents in Australia. Daniel Aghion, president of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, noted that while devastating, the attack was not unexpected. "None of the Jewish community is surprised. We've known this has been coming," he said.

The arson has drawn widespread condemnation and sparked calls for vigilance to combat rising hate crimes targeting Jewish communities across the country.