Australia Sees Sharp Rise in Islamophobic Incidents Amid Gaza Conflict

Australia Sees Surge in Islamophobic Incidents Following Gaza War SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 12, 2025 - The Australian government has acknowledged a significant increase in anti-Muslim incidents across the country since Israel's war on Gaza began in May. According to an independent report released earlier this month, Islamophobic incidents have "skyrocketed" in Australia, sparking concerns about the safety and well-being of Muslim communities. The National Response to Islamophobia report found that hate crimes targeting Muslims increased by 25% between May and August, compared to the same period last year. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed the issue during a media briefing at the Commonwealth Parliament Offices in Sydney on Friday, stating, "Targeting Australians based on their religious beliefs is an attack on our country's core values. We must stamp out hate, fear, and prejudice." The report's findings have been met with alarm by Muslim advocacy groups, who argue that the increase in Islamophobic incidents reflects a broader trend of rising anti-Muslim sentiment globally. "This is not just an Australian problem; it's a global issue," said Dr. Amira Ali, director of the Australian Muslim Advocacy Network. "We're seeing similar patterns of hate and intolerance emerge in countries like France, Spain, and the UK." The Gaza war has been a major catalyst for the surge in Islamophobic incidents, with many Australians expressing support for Israel's military actions on social media. However, experts warn that such rhetoric can have real-world consequences, fueling violence and discrimination against Muslim communities. The Australian government has pledged to consider the report's recommendations, which include increased funding for community outreach programs and education initiatives aimed at promoting interfaith understanding. As the situation continues to unfold, human rights groups are calling on governments around the world to take concrete steps to address Islamophobia and promote tolerance. "This is a wake-up call for all of us," said Dr. Ali. "We must work together to create a more inclusive and accepting society, where everyone can feel safe and valued." The Australian government has yet to announce any specific measures to address the surge in Islamophobic incidents, but officials have signaled their commitment to tackling the issue. In related news, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has expressed concern about the rise of Islamophobia globally, calling on governments to take urgent action to protect Muslim communities. *Reporting by Aljazeera.*