Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has promised to deploy the “full force of the law” against perpetrators of an arson attack on a Melbourne synagogue, as authorities investigate potential links to a simultaneous assault on a Jewish-owned restaurant. The Friday night attack saw a man pour flammable liquid on the East Melbourne synagogue’s entrance and ignite it while 20 people dined inside, forcing their evacuation.
The synagogue firebombing occurred hours after rioters stormed Miznon restaurant in Melbourne’s CBD, smashing furniture while chanting “Death to the IDF” (Israel Defense Forces). Police arrested multiple suspects at the restaurant but are still hunting the synagogue arsonist, while determining if the incidents are connected.
Alex Ryvchin of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry called the violence a “severe escalation,” reflecting worsening antisemitic tensions since the Israel-Hamas war began. Australia has recorded over 300 antisemitic incidents in recent months, prompting the government to appoint a special antisemitism envoy, strengthen hate crime laws and increase security funding for Jewish institutions
The Government’s Firm Response
Prime Minister Albanese condemned the attacks as “shocking acts” with “no place in Australia,” vowing full legal consequences. His government has mobilized federal police support for investigations, enhanced protection for religious sites and community outreach to combat radicalization.
The synagogue, though damaged, avoided catastrophic harm due to its fire safety systems. No injuries were reported, but the psychological impact has rattled Australia’s 85,000-strong Jewish community—the world’s ninth largest.
With tensions persisting, Australian authorities face mounting pressure to prevent further violence while balancing free speech and social cohesion.
