Two people have been injured in an early morning ‘firebomb attack’ at a synagogue in the heart of Melbourne‘s Jewish community, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemning it as a violent act of anti-Semitism.
Around 60 firefighters and 17 trucks were called to the Adass Israel synagogue at Ripponlea in Glen Eira early on Friday morning.
Two people with minor injuries were evacuated, following what synagogue board member Benjamin Klein described as a deliberate firebombing.
‘From what we understand, two people came to the synagogue about 4.30am, chucked some petrol inside and lit it,’ Mr Klein told Sunrise.
People inside the synagogue during the attack reported that windows were smashed and Molotov cocktails were thrown into the building, he said.
‘They heard banging on the door, and the window and some liquids came through which were lit. The whole thing took off pretty quickly and was on fire,’ Mr Klein told Nine.
‘One member who was inside ran out and had his hand burnt. For this to happen to a synagogue thousands of kilometres away from anywhere else in the world, a peaceful neighbourhood, a peaceful community – it is quite horrendous.’
The sanctuary contains many holy books and expensive Torah scrolls, and the congregation was waiting to get access to assess the extent of the damage, Klein said.
The fire was reportedly started by two men who threw Molotov cocktails into the synagogue, causing widespread damage and injuring two
Around 60 firefighters and 17 trucks were called to the scene in Ripponlea early Friday morning to contain the fire at the synagogue
Fire Rescue Victoria’s Assistant Chief Fire Officer Brayden Sinnamon said the 30m by 20m building was ‘fully involved’ in the fire and the blaze severity was escalated, with crews using breathing apparatus.
Victoria Police has launched an investigation into the attack.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has denounced the attack as a violent act of anti-Semitism aimed at creating fear in the community.
“I have been briefed this morning by the AFP Commissioner Reece Kershaw, there are two persons of interest who were there,’ he told ABC Radio Melbourne.
‘What was witnessed was them using accelerant and then spreading it with a broom, clearly designed to maximise the damage that could occur.
People inside the synagogue reported hearing banging and seeing liquids being thrown, leading to a fast-spreading fire that caused panic
The synagogue contains valuable holy books and Torah scrolls, and the community is awaiting access to assess the full extent of the damage
People inside the synagogue reported hearing banging and seeing liquids being thrown before the fire
‘It’s a terrible morning to wake up to this news, which all Australians should unequivocally condemn,’ he said.
‘This is an outrage. The violence and intimidation and destruction of a place of worship is something that we should never see in Australia.’
Federal Education Minister Jason Clare speculated that the incident was not an accident.
‘It’s pretty clear from your reporting that this is no accident, that this is a deliberate act of violence, an attack on a place of worship, and let’s call it out,’ he told 7 News’ Sunrise program.
‘This is the absolute opposite of what Australia is all about.’
Victoria Police has launched a probe into the suspicious fire, urging anyone with information or footage to come forward
Liberal deputy leader Sussan Ley said the incident was ‘very, very concerning’, adding: ‘It makes me feel quite sick to the stomach.’
‘I feel for the Jewish community today waking up to this news.’
The train level crossing at Glen Eira Road was blocked during the incident but has since opened.
Police have asked anyone with footage of the fire or information to contact CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000.