Sun Dec 08 16:35:40 UTC 2024: ## Arson Attack on Melbourne Synagogue Declared an Act of Terrorism
**Melbourne, Australia –** Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has declared Friday’s arson attack on the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne an act of terrorism, citing the perpetrators’ intent to instill fear within the community. The attack, carried out by masked arsonists who gutted much of the building, has sparked widespread condemnation both domestically and internationally. While there were no serious injuries, authorities are still hunting for the suspects. Australian police will meet Monday to determine if the incident officially meets the criteria for terrorism.
The attack has fueled a debate about rising anti-Semitism in Australia. Opposition leader Peter Dutton criticized Prime Minister Albanese’s response, suggesting a lack of strong condemnation is politically motivated. Adding to the controversy, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu linked the attack to what he called anti-Israel sentiment within the Australian Labor government, referencing Australia’s recent vote in favor of a UN resolution calling for an end to Israel’s presence in occupied Palestinian territories.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong defended the UN vote, stating that it aligns with the international community’s push for a two-state solution and an end to the conflict. She stressed that while Australians are free to express their views on Israeli actions, targeting the Jewish community is unacceptable and turning the incident into a political battle is reckless. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has fueled protests across Australia, creating a tense backdrop to the synagogue attack.
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