Australian law enforcement authorities have declared an arson attack on a synagogue last week a terrorist act, increasing resources available to the investigation. The Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne was extensively damaged in the blaze.
Arson squad detectives were initially investigating the incident, but it was taken over by the Joint Counter-Terrorism Team, involving Victoria state Police and Australian Federal Police, as well as the Australian Security Intelligence Organization.
The declaration follows reports of two masked men spreading a liquid accelerant before the fire. The investigation has gathered significant information, leading authorities to believe it is a politically motivated attack.
Lawmakers had called for the arsonists to be charged with terrorism offenses to face longer prison sentences. The synagogue fire is part of an escalation in targeted attacks in Australia since the war between Israel and Hamas began last year.
In response to recent incidents, Australian Federal Police have formed Special Operation Avalite to target antisemitism around the country. The government has also increased support for Jewish community sites, offering AU$32.5 million to enhance security measures.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/australia-synagogue-fire-melbourne-terrorism-a9b3940618560648504ce48b02fdcd36