Anthony Albanese has been swarmed by a group of seemingly dissatisfied Jewish community members outside the Melbourne synagogue at the centre of a terror investigation.
The Prime Minister was only able to make quick remarks before being whisked away by his security without answering questions from the media. “This arson attack is an act of terrorism that was fuelled by anti-Semitism and it was stoked by hatred,” Mr Albanese said.
While Mr Albanese was welcomed by community leaders, he was still heckled as he stepped towards the cameras after touring inside. “Time to resign,” yelled one person. “MIA,” yelled another. “Off to Kooyong to play tennis mate,” said another. Others yelled: “Nice day for tennis” and “Does the Prime Minister condemn calls for intifada against Jews?”
Mr Albanese pledged the government will provide “whatever support is necessary” to restore the synagogue. “I also want to commit, on behalf of my government that I lead, into doing what we need to do to restore this synagogue, including providing whatever support is necessary financially to make sure that those who perpetrated this evil crime do not receive any benefit and indeed get the message that Australia is not a country that will tolerate such an act, that will continue to unite as a country.” He was escorted out by security to have a private meeting with some local community leaders.
