A MAN was charged today over an arson attack on a Melbourne synagogue in an apparent escalation of anti-semitic violence in Australia’s second-most populous city.

Angelo Loras appeared in the Melbourne magistrates’ court Sunday charged with arson, endangering life and property damage. He was also charged with possessing a “controlled weapon” on Saturday when he was arrested. 

Flammable liquid was ignited at the door of the East Melbourne Synagogue, also known as the East Melbourne Hebrew Congregation, on Friday night as 20 worshippers shared a Shabbat meal inside.

The congregation escaped without harm via a rear door and firefighters contained the blaze to the entrance area of the 148-year-old building.

It was one of three apparent displays of anti-semitic violence across the city on Friday and early on Saturday morning.

Authorities have yet to establish a link between incidents at the synagogue and two businesses.

In Melbourne on Friday night, around 20 masked protesters allegedly harassed diners in an Israeli-owned restaurant.

A restaurant window was cracked, tables were flipped and chairs thrown as protesters chanted “Death to the IDF,” referring to the Israel Defence Forces. 

Police are also investigating the spray-painting of a business in Melbourne’s northern suburbs and an arson attack on three vehicles attached to the business before dawn on Saturday. The vehicles had also been graffitied.
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