AUSTRALIA does not need to increase security after an “abhorrent” attack by Islamist group Hamas on Israel as the government works to determine if any citizens have been caught up in the conflict, the prime minister says.
Hamas fighters rampaged through Israeli towns on Saturday, killing hundreds and injuring thousands.
It’s the deadliest incursion since Egypt and Syria’s attacks in the Yom Kippur war 50 years ago.
At least 700 people, including children, have been killed, Israeli media reported. Israel has not released an official toll.
Gazan authorities say more than 400 people, including 20 children, have died in Israeli retaliatory strikes.
Hamas also took multiple hostages and thousands on both sides have been injured.
However, Israeli and Jewish people in Australia don’t need to increase their security, Anthony Albanese said on Monday as he again condemned the attacks and reiterated Israel’s right to defend itself.
“But there are issues here – we know there’s been a rise in anti-Semitism,” he told Sky News.
“I know this will cause real concern amongst people… anti-Semitism unfortunately, is present and it’s just wrong.”
The Foreign Affairs Department is working around the clock to confirm the welfare of Australian citizens in Israel.
“We are in constant contact between Australian officials and Israeli officials,” he told ABC TV.
Read the report by Domenic Giannini in CBR CityNews (AAP).