Melbourne, Australia: Victoria Police has officially classified the arson attack on the Adass Israel synagogue in Melbourne, which occurred, as a terrorist act.
This decision came after a meeting between Victoria Police, Australian Federal Police (AFP), and the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO).
Police Chief Commissioner Shane Patton described the attack as “targeted,” “callous,” and an assault on the Jewish community, with significant concerns about the emboldened nature of the crime.
The attack, which resulted in extensive damage to the synagogue, was carried out early on Friday, 6th of December, with about 60 firefighters and 17 trucks were called to the site about 4.10am.
The investigation has been handed over to the joint counter-terrorism team. Police are searching for three suspects and have collected significant intelligence pointing to a politically motivated attack.
Despite finding a damaged bullet near the site, authorities do not believe firearms were involved in the arson.
The synagogue’s interior was devastated by the fire, although some scriptures remained intact despite heat damage. Floral tributes and notes have been left outside, as well as signs from the synagogue saying “We will rebuild”.
The Victorian government has pledged $100,000 toward rebuilding, with the community raising an additional $300,000.
Opposition leader Peter Dutton criticized the federal government’s delayed response to classifying the attack as terrorism, while Prime Minister Anthony Albanese acknowledged the attack met the criteria for a terrorist act but emphasized the need for procedural steps.
The Adass Israel community expressed its commitment to rebuilding, with messages of support pouring in from the public.
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