UK, Australia Leaders Condemn Rising Antisemitic Violence

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned rising antisemitism globally during a visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau, linking the recent surge in hate to the Gaza war that began with Hamas's attack on October 7, 2023. He emphasized the need to confront this 'poison' of antisemitism, as international ceremonies approach to commemorate the liberation of the camp. In Australia, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and NSW Premier Chris Minns condemned a violent antisemitic attack in Sydney where cars were torched and vandalized with hateful graffiti, reflecting a disturbing rise in such incidents since the conflict escalated. Local authorities are committing significant resources to investigate these attacks, indicating a serious response to hate crimes. The Australian Jewish community expressed shock at the attacks, calling them cowardly acts of violence aimed at intimidation. Both leaders highlighted the importance of fostering community unity and addressing the growing trend of antisemitism and hate crimes.