Sat Dec 07 16:12:31 UTC 2024: ## Australia Defends Record on Anti-Semitism After Synagogue Arson
**Melbourne, Australia –** Australia’s government is defending its actions against anti-semitism following an arson attack on a Melbourne synagogue and criticism from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Netanyahu accused the Australian government of fostering anti-Israel sentiment, claiming its policies, including support for a UN motion backing a Palestinian state, indirectly encouraged the attack on the Adass Israel synagogue on Friday. The attack injured one person and caused significant damage.
Australian Employment Minister Murray Watt countered Netanyahu’s claims, highlighting the government’s $25 million investment in Jewish community security upgrades since May 2022. He also cited the banning of the Nazi salute and ongoing efforts to combat hate speech. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also condemned the attack, stating that anti-semitism has no place in Australia.
Police are investigating the arson, searching for two suspects. The incident follows a rise in anti-Semitic and Islamophobic incidents in Australia since the start of the October 2023 Israel-Gaza conflict. While the government has expressed concerns about potential community tensions arising from pro-Palestine protests, some Jewish groups maintain that more needs to be done to address the rising tide of antisemitism.
First Piper 