A vehicle displaying Chanukah decorations was set alight in the driveway of a home in St Kilda East.
UPDATE: A shocking firebombing incident in St Kilda East has ignited urgent calls to treat anti-Semitism as a critical public safety issue. The attack occurred in the early hours of December 25, 2023, when a vehicle adorned with a chanukiah symbol was set ablaze outside the residence of a local rabbi. Fortunately, no one was inside the car, but the occupants of the home were evacuated as a precaution.
Authorities are now investigating the suspicious fire and have identified a potential suspect who may assist in the inquiry. This incident follows a tragic massacre on December 14, where 15 people lost their lives during Hanukkah celebrations at Bondi Beach, further intensifying fears within the Jewish community.
Jeremy Leibler, president of the Zionist Federation of Australia, condemned the firebombing, stating it aims to instill fear among visibly Jewish individuals. He emphasized that Australia must recognize anti-Semitism as a public safety crisis, urging for a federal royal commission to address the recent surge in hate crimes. “This is not just a community issue; it’s a national concern,” Leibler insisted.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan expressed her alarm on social media, stating, “This is not what any family, street, or community deserves to wake up to on Christmas Day in Australia.” She affirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of the Jewish community and tackling anti-Semitism decisively.
In a statement, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the firebombing as “beyond comprehension,” questioning the motivations behind such hatred during a festive season. While he has resisted calls for a national inquiry into the Bondi attack, he supports a quicker review of intelligence and law enforcement strategies to prevent future incidents.
The Victorian Government is aligning with New South Wales to implement stronger measures against hate crimes, including empowering police to restrict protests following designated terror attacks. This response signals a significant shift in how authorities will address escalating anti-Semitic sentiments.
As the investigation unfolds, the Jewish community remains on high alert. Activists and leaders are calling for immediate actions to ensure the safety and security of Jewish Australians, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to combat hate speech and violence.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as authorities work diligently to bring the suspect to justice and restore a sense of safety within the community.
