Car burned in suspected anti-Semitic attack

While authorities were on alert following the Bondi massacre, a car was set on fire in the driveway of a house on suspicion of an anti-Semitic attack.

Detectives in Melbourne are investigating a suspicious fire that broke out on Balaclava Street in St Kilda East at around 2.50am on Christmas Day.

Police said that there was no one in the vehicle, which had a Hanukkah-related banner on its roof, but those in the house were evacuated as a precaution.

The car reportedly belonged to a local rabbi.

Detectives have identified a person who may be able to assist with their investigation.

Jewish conservation group CSG Victoria noted the presence of the Hanukiah symbol, a nine-branched candelabra associated with Hanukkah celebrations, on the car.

He confirmed no community members were injured in the incident and remains in close contact with police.

“CSG is already operating at a high level with increased patrols and will continue to do so,” the group said in an Instagram post.

State and federal governments have been under pressure to mount a strong response to rising anti-Semitism following the December 14 terror attack at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, when gunmen targeted a Hanukkah gathering.

While 15 people lost their lives in the attack, dozens of people were seriously injured.

Victoria has vowed to crack down on hate crimes and plans to give police veto powers over protests following terror attacks, in a move that would prompt similar legislation being rapidly introduced in NSW.