Surging Antisemitism: Australia's Year of Unrest
Australia faced over 2,000 antisemitic incidents from October 2023 to 2024. The Iranian government was implicated in certain attacks, prompting Australia to expel the Iranian ambassador. A task force was launched to combat rising antisemitic crimes, marked by synagogue vandalism and arson, leading to enacted legal reforms.

Australia has witnessed a significant rise in antisemitic attacks since October 2023, with more than 2,000 incidents reported over a year, according to the Executive Council of Australian Jewry. The increase in hostility has been particularly noticeable following Israel's conflict with Gaza.
Notably, the Australian government identified connections between the Iranian government and certain attacks, prompting diplomatic tensions. In response, the Australian government expelled Iran's ambassador and intensified efforts to combat antisemitism through law enforcement and policy changes.
Key incidents included vandalism and arson targeting synagogues and Jewish businesses across major cities like Sydney and Melbourne. The authorities have responded by launching a Federal Police Task Force and tightening legal frameworks, reflecting the nation's ongoing struggle against hate crimes and international political pressures.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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