A Sydney council moved to ban construction of a synagogue in the suburb of Bondi Thursday, arguing it could become a target for Islamist terrorists.
The Land and Environment Court backed the council’s decision in order to protect members of the synagogue and the local community from potential risks. Protective walls were meant to surround the building, which the council considers to be a clear sign that people are at risk if the synagogue is built.
“The stated need for protective walls raises concern as to the safety and security of people outside but near the synagogue,” the council argued.
The court also cited Islamic State’s history of attacking the Jewish community in its decision.
Australian Jews voiced their anger over the ban and the “enormous” implications that come with it.
“The decision is unprecedented,” Rabbi Yehoram Ulman told news.com.au. “Its implications are enormous. It basically implies that no Jewish organization should be allowed to exist in residential areas. It stands to stifle Jewish existence and activity in Sydney and indeed, by creating a precedent, the whole of Australia, and by extension rewarding terrorism.”
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