A recent video has sparked outrage in Australia after two medical workers were caught on camera making anti-Semitic threats against Israeli patients. The workers, who are employed at Bankstown Hospital near Sydney, appeared to be speaking from inside the hospital and made derogatory comments about treating patients of Jewish descent.
The Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, quickly condemned the remarks as “sickening and shameful.” Both medical workers have been suspended and referred to police for a criminal investigation. The Australian government has also expressed its commitment to providing safe care to all patients, regardless of their background.
The incident is part of a recent surge in anti-Semitic attacks in Australia, including incidents of vandalism and arson targeting Jewish institutions and individuals. Health officials have assured that the hospital is safe and there is no indication of suspicious activity. The state’s health minister has vowed to take action against those responsible for making such threats.
The Executive Council of Australian Jewry reported a 316% increase in anti-Semitic incidents from October 2023 to September 2024, compared to the previous year. The rise in hate speech and violence is attributed to tensions sparked by the war in Gaza.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/12/world/australia/australia-health-workers-antisemitism.html