Australian authorities are on the hunt for three suspects connected to a fire that consumed the Adass Israel synagogue in Melbourne early Friday morning, which they are investigating as a potential terrorist act. The blaze injured one man and has sparked fears within the local Jewish community regarding rising antisemitism.
Melbourne Synagogue Blaze Under Investigation as Possible Terrorism
Melbourne Synagogue Blaze Under Investigation as Possible Terrorism
Police treat Adass Israel synagogue fire as a likely act of terrorism; community concerns rise.
Though officers reported that no additional antisemitic threats are currently tied to the incident, security measures are being bolstered in response to community concerns. Witnesses described seeing masked figures with an accelerant before the fire erupted. Melbourne police, along with the Australian Federal Police and ASIO, have increased patrols and resources for their ongoing investigation.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has characterized the arson as "quite clearly terrorism" based on preliminary assessments, while also emphasizing that police are still conducting their inquiry into the matter. State Premier Jacinta Allan remarked that labeling the event as terror-related allows law enforcement to dedicate more resources to the investigation.
Jewish community leaders have expressed alarm, noting this incident reflects a troubling escalation of antisemitic activities in Australia. Multiple congregants reported witnessing the chaos unfold, documenting their experiences of hearing loud bangs and seeing windows break before the fire was set.
As investigations proceed, police aim to reassure the Jewish community, implementing increased security in neighborhoods with significant Jewish populations. Premier Allan urged the broader community to unite against the wave of violence and discrimination.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has characterized the arson as "quite clearly terrorism" based on preliminary assessments, while also emphasizing that police are still conducting their inquiry into the matter. State Premier Jacinta Allan remarked that labeling the event as terror-related allows law enforcement to dedicate more resources to the investigation.
Jewish community leaders have expressed alarm, noting this incident reflects a troubling escalation of antisemitic activities in Australia. Multiple congregants reported witnessing the chaos unfold, documenting their experiences of hearing loud bangs and seeing windows break before the fire was set.
As investigations proceed, police aim to reassure the Jewish community, implementing increased security in neighborhoods with significant Jewish populations. Premier Allan urged the broader community to unite against the wave of violence and discrimination.
