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Sunday 22/02/2026

Melbourne Synagogue Fire Sparks Outrage and Calls for Action Against Antisemitism

Fire engulfing the front door of a Melbourne synagogue at night
Sofia RomanoSofia Romano

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • A Melbourne synagogue was set on fire in an apparent antisemitic attack, with 20 people evacuated safely.
  • Angelo Loras, 34, has been charged with arson and reckless conduct endangering life.
  • Australian PM Anthony Albanese and Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the attack, calling for strict legal action.
  • The incident is part of a series of antisemitic attacks in Australia, linked to tensions over the Israel-Hamas conflict.
  • Australian authorities are investigating potential links to other attacks, including one on a Jewish-owned restaurant.

A recent arson attack on the East Melbourne Hebrew Congregation has ignited widespread condemnation and calls for decisive action against antisemitism in Australia. The incident, which occurred on Friday night, saw a man pour flammable liquid on the synagogue's front door before setting it ablaze. Fortunately, the 20 individuals inside were evacuated without injury.

Arrest and Legal Proceedings

Angelo Loras, a 34-year-old from Toongabbie, Sydney, has been arrested and charged with arson and reckless conduct endangering life. He is set to appear in court as investigations continue into whether this attack is linked to other antisemitic incidents in Melbourne, including an assault on a Jewish-owned restaurant.

Political and Community Reactions

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has vowed to bring those responsible to justice, emphasizing that "antisemitism has no place in Australia." His sentiments were echoed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who described the attack as "reprehensible" and urged the Australian government to take all necessary actions to prevent similar hate crimes.

Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke, who visited the synagogue and met with Jewish leaders, described the attack as not just an assault on the Jewish community but on Australian values. "This is an attack on Australia," he stated, reinforcing the government's commitment to combating hate crimes.

Context and Broader Implications

The attack is part of a troubling rise in antisemitic incidents in Australia, exacerbated by the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The Australian government has responded by appointing a special envoy to combat antisemitism and enacting tougher hate crime laws. However, community leaders and international figures, including Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar, have called for more robust measures.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The Melbourne synagogue attack underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address rising antisemitism in Australia. As legal proceedings against Angelo Loras unfold, authorities will likely intensify efforts to investigate potential links to other incidents and prevent future attacks. Politically, the situation could prompt further legislative action to strengthen hate crime laws and enhance community protection measures.

Internationally, the incident may strain diplomatic relations, with Israel closely monitoring Australia's response. The Australian government's handling of this case could set a precedent for how similar incidents are addressed in the future, potentially influencing global approaches to combating antisemitism and hate crimes.

Images from the Web

Additional article image
Image Source: Lukas Coch/AAP
Additional article image
Image Source: James Ross/AAP