‘Viciously anti-Israel’ sign ignites fury

IT’S DIVIDED people around the world, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and now an ‘Israelis are the dogs of war…’ sign, on a property at Fish Creek, is doing the same locally.

It has also caught the eye of the Anti-Defamation Commission.

“The vicious anti-Israel rhetoric that we have seen in our capital cities has now invaded the streets of Gippsland and it seems that this epidemic of hate continues to spiral out of control,” said Dvir Abramovich, Chair of the Anti-Defamation Commission, Australia’s leading civil rights organisation fighting antisemitism. 

“Make no mistake: This sign is incitement and vilification pure and simple. And will only contribute to the climate of escalating hostility that justifies violence against Jews and anyone who supports Israel.

“Words are bullets, especially during this dangerous atmosphere in which stomach-churning demonisation of Australian Jews has reached fever pitch.

“Such targeting, a slow-burning poison, can take a life on its own with tragic consequences. This is not just a banner scrawled by a coward who seeks to sow division and instil fear in our communities, it is an assault on our sense of safety.”

Mr Abramovich whose cousin, Police Inspector Chen Amir, was murdered in a terrorist attack in Tel Aviv in August, and whose family in Kibbutz Reim hid in a safe room while Hamas terrorists stalked and killed their neighbours, issued the statement after the sign was brought to his attention.

“What was unthinkable five years ago has become a terrifying reality, and the hurricane of antisemitism that has defiled our nation continues to shred to pieces our shared values and subject the Jewish community to a torrent of racist abuse that is chilling in its intensity.

“It may be an uncomfortable truth for some, but this runaway problem is skyrocketing, and this latest incident tells us once again that there are troubling signs that cannot be ignored. The situation is getting worse as pro-Hamas advocates continue to fan the flames of intolerance with their expressions becoming more aggressive.

“This individual, who took the time to deliberately express their cruel slanders is walking amongst us with evil in their hearts. There is no room in Gippsland for such sickening intimidation, and I hope that the Council can act to remove this disgusting sign.”

South Gippsland Shire says it is working to find a solution, however, at this stage it claims its hands are tied as the sign rests on the individual’s property.

“Council is aware of the sign and will initiate action to have it removed,” a spokesperson for the shire stated.

“South Gippsland Shire Council encourages inclusivity and does not support intolerant messaging or behaviour.”

The ADC is a not-for-profit Non-Government Organisation (NGO) and is registered as a Harm Prevention Charity.