Australian health care workers threaten Israeli man, claim to have killed Jews in their care
Two Australian healthcare workers are currently under investigation after a disturbing video surfaced online showing them threatening to kill an Israeli man. The man and woman, who claimed to be doctors, engaged in a conversation with the Israeli man on Chatrouletka, a website that matches strangers for international conversations.
The conversation took a dark turn when the female worker vehemently denied the Israeli man’s nationality, stating that it was “Palentine’s country, not your country.” The situation escalated further when the woman threatened the man with a gruesome death, stating, “when the time comes, I want you to remember my face, so you can understand that you will die the most disgusting death.” The pair also declared that they would not provide medical treatment to the man and even went as far as to threaten to kill him if he visited their hospital.
The male healthcare worker in scrubs added to the threat by making a throat-slashing gesture while mentioning that numerous Israelis had been to their hospital before. The two individuals were later identified as workers at Bankstown Hospital in New South Wales and were promptly “stood down” by the authorities.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and New South Wales Premier Chris Minns both condemned the healthcare workers’ actions, describing the video as “vile” and “disgusting.” Albanese emphasized that criminal antisemitic acts would face the full force of the law in Australia.
The incident has sparked outrage within the Australian Jewish community, especially in light of recent antisemitic attacks, including the firebombing of a synagogue in Melbourne. Alexander Ryvchin, co-chief executive officer of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, expressed concern that such behavior was becoming more prevalent in Australia and called for swift action to address and eradicate antisemitism.
In response to the escalating antisemitic incidents, Australia recently enacted a hate crimes bill that imposes minimum mandatory penalties for hate-related crimes, including those targeting specific communities. The government has allocated funds to increase security for Jewish organizations and has taken a firm stance against hate speech and symbols.
While the Jewish population in Australia is relatively small compared to other communities, efforts are being made to ensure their safety and security in the face of rising intolerance. The Australian Federal Police have been tasked with addressing threats and violence targeting the Jewish community, and measures are being taken to combat and deter antisemitic behavior.
As the investigation into the healthcare workers continues, the Australian government remains committed to upholding the principles of equality, tolerance, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their background or beliefs. It is essential to address and confront antisemitism in all its forms to create a society where everyone can feel safe and valued.
