The Australian Federal Police (AFP) have initiated an investigation into the potential involvement of overseas actors in the rise of antisemitic acts within the country. This was outlined in a statement released on Tuesday, which introduces Special Operation Avalite and Operation Ardvarna. These initiatives aim to tackle “high-harm antisemitism” and the use of “prohibited symbols” respectively. AFP Commissioner Reece Kershaw highlighted the significant recent increase in antisemitism, emphasizing its detrimental impact on social cohesion.
The AFP is examining whether individuals overseas might be orchestrating these antisemitic incidents in Australia, potentially recruiting locals with incentives such as cryptocurrency payments. This investigation includes exploring the involvement of young individuals who may be influenced by online content to partake in these antisemitic acts.
Special Operation Avalite, detailed in a press release, was launched in December 2024. It is composed of twenty-one police and analysts specializing in counter-terrorism. They are tasked with responding nationwide to investigate threats, acts of violence, and urging of violence against the Jewish community and related entities, including the unlawful display of prohibited symbols.
Hugh de Kretser, President of the Australian Human Rights Commission, in a statement to the Joint Parliamentary Committee on Human Rights, voiced his concern over the nationwide rise in antisemitism. He cited incidents such as arson attacks on synagogues, a parliamentarian’s office, and a childcare center. Kretser underscored how these attacks aim to create fear and division.
Since its inception, Special Operation Avalite has received 166 reports and has already made arrests. On January 16, the AFP laid its first charges under this operation against a man from Western Sydney for allegedly making death threats to members of a Jewish organization. As the investigation progresses, 15 serious allegations are under scrutiny, with further charges anticipated.
Reece Kershaw declared, “Antisemitism is a disease in our community, and it needs to be aggressively attacked because history shows what happens when action is not taken against those who fuel fear and terrorize others.”
This article originally appeared on JURIST.