The Jewish heartland of Melbourne was the site of violent clashes between Palestinian and Israel supporters last Friday. The demonstration, organised by Free Palestine Melbourne in Caulfield on November 10, led to tensions and heated exchanges next to a local synagogue. Caulfield, a suburb with a substantial Jewish community, saw violence erupt between supporters of Israel and Palestine following the morning fire destruction of a Palestinian-owned restaurant.
Despite claims from Victoria Police that the incident was not driven by racial or political motivations, Palestinian supporters gathered in the area that evening, rallying and chanting pro-Palestinian slogans. Local Jewish residents, in response, began to gather, waving Israeli flags and chanting in support of bringing hostages held captive by Hamas home. The situation escalated as the crowds grew and tensions mounted, requiring police intervention to separate the two sides.
Pro-Palestinian protesters allegedly stormed towards the pro-Israel counter-protestors, leading to physical clashes between both groups and instances of rock-throwing. Pepper spray was used by police to contain the violence, and the nearby synagogue had to be evacuated and services canceled due to the “threat posed by pro-Palestinian protestors,” according to Zionism Victoria. The organizers, Free Palestine Melbourne, expressed regret for the disruption near the synagogue, stating that it was never their intention to disrupt or intimidate Jewish worshippers.
According to the organizers, the main rally had already concluded at 8 p.m., with the tensions escalating soon after. Despite their assertions that the event was not intended to be disruptive or intimidating, political leaders condemned the violent scenes that unfolded from the demonstration.
As a result of the violent clashes, the premier announced an increased police presence in Caulfield over the next few days. Leaders from a variety of organizations, including the Jewish and Islamic communities, publicly condemned the violence and called for peaceful protests. The President of the Islamic Council of Victoria also noted that protests expressing solidarity with Palestine will continue until there is a resolution.