Nurses Suspended in Australia Over Disturbing Antisemitic Video

The Australian healthcare community is in turmoil as two nurses are suspended after a video surfaced showing them threatening Israeli patients. With investigations ongoing and national leaders denouncing the video, the incident raises alarms about escalating antisemitism in Australia.

Two nurses employed at a Sydney hospital have been suspended following the release of a shocking video that depicted them making violent threats against Israeli patients, causing widespread outrage in Australia. The video, which surfaced on TikTok, prompted immediate investigations by both local police and the New South Wales healthcare regulator.

State Health Minister Ryan Park confirmed that a "thorough investigation" into the incident is underway to ensure that patient care was not compromised, although preliminary assessments of hospital records have not indicated any issues. The disturbing footage features a man who claims to be a doctor making a throat-slitting gesture towards a TikTok content creator from Israel, while a female nurse ominously states, "I will kill them," regarding patients from Israel.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the video, labeling it "sickening and shameful." His remarks follow recent efforts by the government to enforce stricter laws against hate crimes, responding to a spike in antisemitic activities across the nation. As the NSW Police confirmed they had identified the individuals involved, Park emphasized their immediate suspension, ensuring that they would not re-enter the state's healthcare system.

The TikTok clip was shared by content creator Max Veifer, illustrating a troubling discourse between the nurses and Veifer during a video chat on Chatruletka, a platform that pairs individuals for discussions. Although the video includes some edits and added emojis, authorities have stated they do not question its authenticity.

In a statement on social media, Albanese urged that "antisemitic comments driven by hate are intolerable" in both the healthcare sector and society as a whole, reaffirming that those guilty of such acts would face consequences under Australian law. Park extended his apologies to the Jewish community, asserting that they should be able to expect "first-class" health care in New South Wales, and that no such hateful perspectives should be tolerated within the healthcare framework.

This incident also highlights a worrying trend in Australia, where there have been recent surges in antisemitic incidents, including graffiti and arson targeting Jewish communities. Alex Ryvchin, co-chief executive of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, remarked that the video serves as a stark reminder of the underlying hate present in society, calling it a significant “warning sign” for all Australians.