Counterterrorism Police Investigate Swastika Vandalism and Arson at Sydney Synagogue

Authorities are probing a series of antisemitic attacks in Sydney, including attempted arson and graffiti, as Jewish leaders and officials condemn the incidents.

• The Newtown Synagogue in Sydney was defaced with swastikas, and an arson attempt was made early Saturday morning, prompting counterterrorism police to take over the investigation.
• Authorities have released images of two suspects, a man and a woman, seen spray-painting the synagogue and attempting to ignite a fire with an accelerant.
• The attack is part of a broader rise in antisemitic incidents across Australia, including graffiti on another Sydney synagogue and a December arson attack in Melbourne, which was ruled a terrorist act.
• Jewish community leaders have condemned the incidents, calling the Newtown attack a failed act of terrorism and welcoming increased government funding for synagogue security measures.
• Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and New South Wales officials have denounced the attacks, emphasizing the importance of protecting the country’s multicultural and religious freedoms.

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