BREAKING: A family in Melbourne has been thrust into crisis after their car, prominently displaying a Hanukkah sign, was firebombed in the driveway of their home early this Christmas morning. Emergency services rushed to the scene on December 25, 2025, at approximately 2:50 AM, in St Kilda East, where the vehicle was engulfed in flames while the family slept inside.
Authorities report that the targeted vehicle was parked outside the family’s house, and fortunately, no injuries were sustained. As firefighters battled the blaze, residents were evacuated as a precautionary measure. The car has since been towed from the property as part of the ongoing investigation.
Police have classified the incident as suspicious, with the Moorabbin Crime Investigation Unit leading the probe. Investigators have identified a potential witness and are urgently appealing for anyone with dashcam or CCTV footage from the area to come forward to assist with their inquiries.
The firebombing has sparked outrage among Melbourne’s Jewish community. The Australian Jewish Association condemned the attack, citing it as part of a worrying trend of rising antisemitism in Australia. Their statement read: “The new Australia where for over two years the antisemitism crisis has been allowed to escalate unchecked due to inaction and in some cases incitement by our governments.”
This alarming incident follows the recent Bondi Beach Hanukkah by the Sea terror attack on December 14, which tragically left 15 people dead. The community is calling for immediate action to address the escalating violence.
As authorities continue to investigate the firebombing, the local Jewish community remains on high alert. Anyone with information related to this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online.
This developing story highlights a critical moment in the ongoing struggle against antisemitism, raising significant concerns about the safety of communities across Australia. Stay tuned for further updates as this situation unfolds.
