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Truck Rams Brisbane Synagogue in Suspected Hate Crime, Suspect Arrested
Surveillance footage has captured the moment a man allegedly drove his vehicle into the historic Brisbane Synagogue in Australia on Friday evening, before fleeing the scene. The incident, which authorities are treating as a hate crime, adds to growing concerns about antisemitic violence in the country.
The 32-year-old suspect from Sunnybank, whose name has not been released, faces multiple charges including willful damage, serious vilification or hate crime, dangerous operation of a vehicle, possession of dangerous drugs and possession of drug paraphernalia, according to Queensland Police.
The attack occurred shortly after 7:15 p.m. local time when a black Toyota Hilux utility truck was captured on video stopping in front of the Margaret Street synagogue, then deliberately reversing into the gates, knocking one side down before speeding away in the direction it had come from.
Police quickly tracked the vehicle and apprehended the driver without incident. Authorities believe the man acted alone and have stated there is no ongoing threat to the community. No injuries were reported during the incident.
The suspect is scheduled to appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court on Saturday to face the charges.
This attack comes amid heightened tensions following Australia’s deadliest terror attack two months ago, when a father and son allegedly targeted a Jewish “Hanukkah by the Sea” celebration at Bondi Beach on December 14. That incident resulted in 15 deaths and dozens of injuries when Naveed Akram, 24, and his father, Sajid Akram, 50, allegedly opened fire on attendees.
Sajid Akram was killed during a shootout with police at the scene, while Naveed Akram was critically injured. The younger Akram now faces numerous charges including committing a terrorist act, 15 counts of murder, 40 counts of attempted murder, and additional firearms and explosives offenses.
The Brisbane Synagogue, a prominent landmark in the city’s central business district, has long served as a center for Jewish community life in Queensland. The damage to this historic place of worship has sent shockwaves through Australia’s Jewish community, which has been increasingly on alert following the Bondi Beach attack.
In recent weeks, tensions have escalated further when police clashed with anti-Israel demonstrators during Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s visit to Australia. At least 27 people were arrested, including 10 for allegedly assaulting officers, after violence erupted as authorities attempted to clear thousands of protesters gathered near Sydney’s Town Hall.
During his visit, Herzog warned of rising antisemitism, describing it as a “global emergency,” and defended Israel’s actions in Gaza when questioned about the protests.
The attack on the Brisbane Synagogue reflects a concerning pattern of antisemitic incidents in Australia, which have increased significantly since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict in October 2023. Jewish community leaders have repeatedly called for enhanced security measures and greater social cohesion efforts to combat the rise in hate crimes.
Australian authorities have pledged to strengthen protections for religious institutions in response to these incidents, with increased police patrols around synagogues and other Jewish community facilities nationwide.
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12 Comments
Sadly, antisemitism continues to be a persistent problem even in countries like Australia. I hope the community can find ways to come together and stand against this kind of hatred.
It’s critical that authorities take these types of hate crimes seriously and work to prevent future incidents. The safety of all religious groups must be protected.
This is a very troubling incident that highlights the need for greater vigilance and action against antisemitism. I hope the Jewish community in Brisbane can recover from this attack.
Attacks on places of worship are unacceptable. I hope the authorities investigate this thoroughly and take appropriate measures to protect the community.
I’m deeply saddened to hear about this suspected hate crime against the Brisbane synagogue. Our places of worship should be sanctuaries, not targets of violence.
This is a disturbing incident that deserves a strong response from the authorities. I hope the Jewish community in Brisbane can feel safe and supported.
It’s deeply troubling to see this kind of hate-motivated crime against a place of worship. I hope the Jewish community in Brisbane can feel secure and supported during this difficult time.
Hate crimes like this have no place in a tolerant, diverse society. I hope the authorities take strong action to prevent such incidents from occurring again.
This is a disturbing incident that appears to be a targeted attack on the Jewish community. I hope the authorities conduct a thorough investigation and bring the perpetrator to justice swiftly.
Antisemitic violence is unacceptable and must be condemned strongly. The safety and security of religious minorities should be a top priority.
This appears to be a senseless act of vandalism and intimidation targeting the Jewish community. I hope the synagogue is able to recover and continue its important work.
Attacks on religious institutions are especially concerning. I hope the authorities investigate this thoroughly and ensure the safety of the community.