Car displaying Hanukkah sign set on fire in Melbourne
Australian police have opened an investigation after a car bearing a sign celebrating the Jewish festival of Hanukkah was set on fire in Melbourne early Thursday morning. The incident occurred in St Kilda East, a coastal suburb of the city, and no injuries were reported.
According to local authorities, the vehicle was parked in the driveway of a residence when it was engulfed in flames. A sign reading “Happy Hanukkah” had been attached to the roof of the car. Residents of the house were evacuated as a precaution, while firefighters quickly brought the blaze under control.
Police described the incident as a “suspicious fire” and said investigators are working to determine the circumstances. A person of interest has reportedly been identified and efforts are underway to locate them.
The case comes at a time of heightened concern over antisemitic acts in Australia, following a deadly attack in Sydney earlier this month during a public Hanukkah event. In response to recent incidents, Australian authorities have announced tougher measures and penalties targeting hate crimes.
Local community leaders expressed relief that no one was harmed, while also voicing concern about what they see as a growing sense of insecurity among Jewish communities in Melbourne and across the country.
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