Melbourne Synagogue Arson Evacuates 20 in Rising Anti-Semitic Attacks

Australian authorities have condemned a series of anti-Semitic attacks in Melbourne, including an arson attack on a synagogue where 20 people were present but safely evacuated. The fire was started by a male suspect described as Caucasian in his mid-30s, who poured flammable liquid on the synagogue's entrance. Victoria Police have not yet confirmed an anti-Semitic motive but noted the synagogue had experienced pro-Palestinian activity over the past year. Leaders of the Jewish community, including Alex Ryvchin of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, described the attacks as a severe escalation targeting the community's faith. Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan emphasized that any attack on a place of worship is an act of hate and anti-Semitism has no place in society. The incidents have sparked widespread condemnation across Melbourne and underscore a disturbing rise in anti-Semitic behavior in Australia.