The Jewish community in Australia is grappling with fear following intelligence reports indicating that the Iranian government orchestrated two anti-Semitic attacks in Melbourne and Sydney. These incidents, which included a firebombing at the Adass Israel Synagogue and a kosher deli, have heightened anxiety among community members and prompted a swift governmental response.
On December 2024, the Adass Israel Synagogue, a peaceful place of worship, was firebombed by individuals associated with Iranian proxies, resulting in significant damage and injuries to a congregant. Benjamin Klein, a board member of the synagogue, reported receiving a call from a senior official in Prime Minister Anthony Albanese‘s office, confirming that these “dangerous acts of aggression” were linked to Iran. Klein expressed the shock and trauma felt by the community, stating, “It is quite shocking and traumatic to think that a peaceful, loving shule is targeted and attacked by terrorists from overseas.”
Authorities in both Victoria and at the federal level have increased security measures at a temporary location where the congregation is currently gathering. Klein noted that while community members feel more anxious and scared, they remain resolute in their faith and traditions.
In a separate incident, the Lewis’ Continental Kitchen, a well-known kosher deli in Bondi, Sydney, was attacked in the early hours of October 20, 2024. Alex Ryvchin, of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, highlighted the emotional toll on the deli’s owner, Judith Lewis, who is still processing the implications of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps’ involvement through local crime elements. Ryvchin commented, “The fact that a business is targeted makes every Jewish Australian fearful that they could be next, and that’s what terrorism really does to us.”
In response to these escalations, the Australian government expelled the Iranian ambassador, a significant diplomatic move not seen since World War II. Prime Minister Albanese characterized the attacks as “extraordinary and dangerous acts of aggression orchestrated by a foreign nation on Australian soil.” This expulsion reflects a commitment to protecting the safety of the Jewish community.
Iran has categorically denied these allegations, with Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei attempting to deflect the accusations by linking them to Australia’s diplomatic challenges with Israel. Baghaei suggested that Australia’s actions were a response to its criticisms of the Israeli government. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi took to social media, stating that “Iran is paying the price for the Australian people’s support for Palestine” and criticized Albanese as a “weak politician.”
Australia’s government is moving forward with plans to designate the Iranian Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization, pending the passage of urgent legislation. This action underlines the gravity of the situation, as authorities seek to address foreign threats on domestic soil.
Community leaders have welcomed these measures, emphasizing the importance of a strong stance against the Iranian regime. Ryvchin remarked, “Israel’s enemies are Australia’s enemies. That much is clear.” He pointed out the sophistication and determination of those who pose threats to the Jewish community, whether they are local criminals or foreign operatives.
The alleged arson at the deli has led to the arrest of Wayne Dean Ogden, 41, who remains in custody ahead of a court appearance on October 21. Another suspect, Sayed Mohammed Moosawi, 32, was released on bail three weeks prior after pleading not guilty to charges related to the deli firebombing and directing a criminal group. His case is also set to return to court on the same day.
As investigations continue, ASIO director-general Mike Burgess has indicated that additional anti-Semitic attacks may be linked to these incidents, further amplifying the sense of urgency within the community. The atmosphere remains tense as Jewish Australians seek both justice and assurances of their safety in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.
