A car with a “Happy Chanukah” sign set ablaze in the Melbourne suburb of St Kilda East early Thursday morning. Victoria police described the incident as a “suspicious fire.”
The empty car was parked in a house driveway when the fire started. Images broadcast by ABC showed the vehicle scorched, with flames engulfing the sign. Occupants of the house were evacuated as a precaution.
Police said detectives have identified a person who may assist in the investigation. Officers are actively searching for the individual and making inquiries into their whereabouts. Authorities have not confirmed any arrests.
Rabbi Effy Block from the local Chabad of St Kilda called the attack clearly antisemitic. “Thank God no people were harmed,” he said. He added that incidents like this show a continuing escalation of attacks targeting the Jewish community.
The fire comes shortly after Australia tightened laws and penalties for hate crimes. This follows a mass shooting on December 14 at a Hanukkah festival on Bondi Beach, which killed 15 people. Authorities are warning communities to remain vigilant.
Residents of St Kilda East expressed concern over safety. Rabbi Block said, “My Jewish community in St Kilda and Melbourne do not feel safe in their own homes and country.” The attack has raised fears of rising antisemitic incidents in the region.
This is not the first time a sign set ablaze has been used as a symbol of hate. Authorities stress the importance of reporting suspicious activity immediately to prevent escalation.
Police continue to investigate the fire. They urge anyone with information about the incident or the person of interest to come forward. The Jewish community remains on alert as law enforcement monitors local areas closely.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about antisemitism in Melbourne. Local leaders are calling for stronger protections and community awareness to ensure safety. For now, the investigation into the sign set ablaze remains active.
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