Israeli leaders demand Australian action

Israel’s political leadership has issued unprecedented demands for stronger Australian government action following weekend antisemitic attacks in Melbourne that targeted a synagogue and Israeli restaurant.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the incidents as “severe hate crimes that must be uprooted” and demanded the Australian government “take all action to deal with the rioters to the fullest extent of the law and prevent similar attacks in the future.”

“I view with utmost gravity the antisemitic attacks that occurred last night in Melbourne, which included attempted arson of a synagogue in the city and a violent assault against an Israeli restaurant by pro-Palestinian rioters,” Netanyahu said in a statement.

Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar posted to social media urging stronger government action, saying “There have been too many antisemitic attacks in Australia. The Australian government must do more to fight this poisonous disease.”

“I strongly condemn last night’s vile antisemitic attacks in Melbourne, including the arson attack on the East Melbourne Hebrew Congregation synagogue and the targeted violence at the Israeli restaurant Miznon,” Sa’ar said.