Brisbane Resident’s Café Vandalized: Jewish Community Scrambles in Wake of Vicious Arsons
A fire destroyed a iconic kosher café, Lewis’ Continental Kitchen, on the outskirts of Sydney, setting off a chorus of alarm about the rise in anti-Semitic violence in Australia.
The café was set ablaze in the dead of night, burning down the storied eatery that had operated for over five decades. Jewish community leaders across the country expressed outrage and consternation.
Judith Lewis, the daughter of the founding family, witnessed the destruction unfold. She still cannot bring herself to hang up new mezuzahs to replace the ruined one, symbolic of Jewish faith.
The brazen attack may be part of a larger movement, with numerous anti-Semitic crimes reported in Melbourne and Sydney – including arson assaults on synagogues and hateful graffiti on streets and cars – since mid-December.
Following the attacks, authorities have identified around a dozen suspects, a dozen of which have been taken into custody with some facing potential life sentences without bail.
Policing action has been enhanced, with patrols increased at major Jewish sites.
The Australian premier has condemned anti-Semitic attacks but has been lambasted by an opposition leader for being slow in responding to anti-Semitic violence.
The opposition chief has accused Albanese of fueling division following a protest after the Israeli Defense Forces’ involvement in the region.
The wave of anti-Semitism has also included attacks on those who support or identify with Israel, with attacks on mosques reported.
The Israel-Palestinian conflict has spilled over into communities worldwide, driving a surge of hate crimes based on religion.