The escalating geopolitical conflict between Israel and Hamas has cast a long shadow over Jewish communities worldwide, including in Australia. The reverberations of the October 7th conflict have sparked a surge in antisemitic incidents and a palpable sense of fear among Australian Jews, forcing many to reassess their safety and security. This heightened anxiety has led to an unprecedented demand for private security services, with Jewish institutions and individuals seeking protection against potential threats. The once-familiar landscape of Australian Jewish life is now marked by increased vigilance, a stark reminder of the global reach of international conflicts and their impact on local communities.
Stephen Vogel, director of Sayeret Security, a small private security firm specializing in protecting Jewish events and gatherings, has witnessed this escalating demand firsthand. His company, once primarily focused on event security, is now increasingly tasked with patrolling synagogues and schools after hours. The nature of the potential threats has also evolved, prompting Vogel to consider expanding his services to include armed protection. He foresees a grim future where car-rammings, stabbings, and even shootings could become a reality, necessitating a more robust security response. This shift towards armed security underscores the growing fear within the community and the perceived inadequacy of existing protective measures. The financial burden of this increased security is also substantial, with Vogel estimating that larger Jewish schools could face annual security costs exceeding $1 million.
The need for such heightened security measures raises profound concerns about the erosion of safety and freedom for Jewish Australians. Peter Wertheim, co-chief executive officer of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, laments the necessity of private security, emphasizing that all individuals should be able to live freely without fear of being targeted for their beliefs. His words highlight the fundamental right to religious freedom and the distressing reality that this right is increasingly under threat for Jewish Australians. The current climate of fear and anxiety stands in stark contrast to Australia’s long-held reputation as a tolerant and multicultural society.
The impact of the October 7th conflict extends beyond physical security concerns, profoundly altering the daily lives of many Jewish Australians. David Adler, President of the Australian Jewish Association, recounts stories of community members whose families, visiting from Israel, refuse to dine in kosher restaurants in Sydney, fearing for their safety. This anecdote underscores the pervasive fear that has gripped the community, transforming everyday activities into potential risks. Australia’s image as a safe haven for Jewish people has been shattered, forcing individuals to reconsider their routines and lifestyles. The psychological toll of this constant fear and anxiety is significant, reshaping the social fabric of the Australian Jewish community.
In response to the rising tensions and security concerns, NSW Police have stepped up their presence in at-risk locations through Operation Shelter, an initiative launched to address community tensions following the October 7th conflict. This operation involves increased patrols of synagogues, mosques, and other vulnerable areas. The scale of the operation, with nearly 38,000 “taskings” to date, including over 5,000 in the past two weeks, reflects the seriousness of the situation and the police’s commitment to ensuring community safety. The arrests and charges made under Operation Shelter further demonstrate the tangible threats and the need for proactive law enforcement intervention.
The situation facing the Australian Jewish community is a complex and evolving one. The ripple effects of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict have created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty, impacting the daily lives and sense of security of Jewish Australians. The increased reliance on private security, the heightened police presence, and the altered behaviors of individuals within the community all point towards a significant shift in the landscape of Australian Jewish life. While law enforcement efforts are underway to address the immediate security concerns, the long-term implications for social cohesion and the future of Jewish life in Australia remain a significant concern. The challenge lies in balancing the need for security with the preservation of fundamental freedoms and the fostering of a tolerant and inclusive society.
