The recent attacks on Assyrian Christian and Israeli sites in Australia have brought to light the rising intolerance and violence in the country. While there is a difference between spilling blood and paint, both incidents reflect a radical intolerance for political, ideological, and religious differences. Experts like Deakin University professor Greg Barton compare this intolerance to climate change, with incidents like the Wakeley attack being seen as major storms in the societal landscape. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called for peace and condemned violence in the community, but the underlying forces at play continue to grow.
ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess and Foreign Minister Penny Wong have highlighted the presence of violence in Australian communities, specifically drawing attention to the risk of lone actors carrying out terrorist attacks motivated by religious or ideological extremism. Burgess noted that the conflict in Gaza, between Israel and Iran, has created heightened tensions and increased rhetoric encouraging violence. ASIO is particularly concerned about the possibility of terrorist attacks in the near future, given the easy access to weapons and the influence of extreme ideologies on individuals.
Wong emphasized the importance of respectful dialogue and the need to address rising levels of antisemitism and Islamophobia in society. She warned that the inability to discuss conflicts like the one in Gaza without condemning fellow citizens threatens democracy. Barton points out that lone attackers are often influenced by a circle of malignant friends or family members, who play a role in radicalizing them. However, the motivations behind acts like vandalizing images in the middle of the night are harder to discern, highlighting the internal conflict within society.
The attacks on Assyrian Christian and Israeli sites have shaken the assumption of safety and tolerance in Australia, with Reverend Sargon Abraham expressing sorrow over the events. The connection between the violence in Sydney and Melbourne suggests a deeper societal issue at play. The tribute to Israeli hostages unveiled by businessman Mottel Gestetner and deputy Victorian Liberal leader David Southwick has brought attention to the need for solidarity and unity in the face of rising intolerance. Experts warn of the potential for further lone-wolf attacks and highlight the underlying factors contributing to the current state of affairs.
The escalating tensions and violence in Australian cities are a cause for concern, with Burgess warning of the possibility of terrorist attacks in the coming months. The ideological and religious motivations behind such attacks are fuelled by external conflicts like the one in Gaza, which have implications for communities in Australia. Wong stresses the importance of respectful dialogue and the dangers of demonizing individuals based on their beliefs or heritage. The need for a united front against intolerance and extremism is clear, as the country grapples with the challenge of maintaining peace and harmony in a diverse society.
