Victoria’s arson squad is investigating what it says was a “deliberate” and “targeted” suspicious fire at a Melbourne synagogue.
Witnesses say two masked people were seen at the synagogue early this morning, before a “deliberately lit fire” destroyed much of the building.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has condemned the suspected attack, saying he has “zero tolerance for antisemitism”.
What happened?
Jewish worshippers started arriving at the Adass Israel synagogue in Ripponlea, south-east Melbourne, around 4am Friday for early morning prayers.
Witnesses say they saw two masked individuals at the synagogue pouring a liquid on the floor before a fire engulfed the building. Detective Inspector Chris Murray said an accelerant has been found at the synagogue.
Police have since confirmed one person sustained a hand injury.
Detective Murray said: “[We are] going to do our best to make sure that they can return, as they should, to their local synagogues, doing what is absolutely Australian — that is to be able to worship without fear.”
No arrests have been made at the time of reporting.
Police are appealing to the public for more information.
Response
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said: “This is an outrage. The violence and intimidation and destruction at a place of worship is something that we should never see in Australia.
“It risks lives, it’s clearly aimed at creating fear in the community,” he added.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton said: “It’s unacceptable – totally unacceptable in our country”.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said: “My focus today, is not on these people who bring violence and hate and evil to the beautiful streets of Melbourne, my focus today is on the Jewish community.”
Executive Council of Australian Jewry President Daniel Aghion said: “This is a tragic day for the Australian Jewish community… There is absolutely no way that any rational person can justify what has happened here today.”
