Melbourne Car Firebombing: ‘Happy Chanukah’ Sign Points to Antisemitic Attack
- A car displaying a "Happy Chanukah" sign was firebombed in St kilda East, melbourne, in the early hours of Christmas morning.
- Emergency services were called to the scene at approximately 2:50 am.
- The Jewish protection group CSG victoria has increased patrols.
Car Firebombed in Melbourne During Hanukkah
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A car displaying a “Happy Chanukah” sign was firebombed in St kilda East, melbourne, in the early hours of Christmas morning. This incident follows a recent terror attack targeting Jews celebrating Hanukkah in Sydney’s Bondi Beach.
Incident Details
Emergency services were called to the scene at approximately 2:50 am. The vehicle, which had a mobile billboard, was found alight in a driveway. no one was inside the car, but the house occupants were evacuated as a precaution.
Key Facts
| Location | Date/Time | Target | Suspected Motive |
|---|---|---|---|
| St Kilda East, Melbourne, Australia | Early hours of Christmas morning (approx. 2:50 am) | Car displaying a “Happy Chanukah” sign | Suspected antisemitism |
- Terror attack at Bondi Beach, Sydney (less than two weeks prior) targeting Hanukkah celebrations.
Responses
Police are actively searching for a person of interest. The Jewish protection group CSG victoria has increased patrols. naomi Levin, CEO of the Jewish Community Council of Victoria, stated the Australian Jewish community is “on edge.” Victorian Premier Jacinta Allen condemned the incident as a potentially antisemitic act and pledged to ensure community safety.
The car was described as spreading “Hanukkah and holiday cheer” and had been seen driving around town.
Further Information
Guardian Australia has images of the damaged car with the “Happy Chanukah!” sign.