'Get this right': Top US Jewish leader's stark warning for Australia

Jonathan Greenblatt, head of the Anti-Defamation League, has warned Australia faces a critical test in its approach to rising antisemitism. During a global report on antisemitism, Australia emerged as the country with the highest increase in incidents of any nation studied. The Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion resumes on Tuesday in Sydney, with Greenblatt attending as the commission analyzes the democratic function of protests and police management of demonstrations.

Greenblatt, a former Obama White House adviser, is visiting Australia amid the royal commission's hearings. He paid respects at the memorial site of the Hanukkah massacre in Bondi Beach, calling it "an indelible stain on Australia." He emphasized the need for Australia to address its concerning antisemitic record, noting a 270% surge in incidents since 2021, the highest increase among countries examined.

Greenblatt lamented that Australia's image as a safe place for Jewish people had been "shattered" by incidents like the Bondi Beach attack and the 2022 firebombing of a Melbourne synagogue. He criticized pro-Palestinian rallies and neo-Nazi rallies for fueling antisemitic rhetoric, stating that such slogans and demonstrations are "pro-hate" and directed against Jewish people.

While praising the royal commission's work, Greenblatt stressed that its ultimate success will depend on the recommendations it makes and the response from governments. He urged Australia to "get this right" and serve as an exemplar for values that many hold dear, adding that the world is watching closely.