Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has issued a plea for activists involved in the Israel-Palestinian debate to deescalate tensions following the vandalism of the U.S. Consulate in Sydney. The incident, captured on CCTV, showed a hooded individual using a sledgehammer to damage the building’s reinforced glass windows, accompanied by the painting of symbols associated with Palestinian resistance.
Albanese emphasized the need for respectful political discourse, highlighting the trauma experienced by individuals connected to the conflict. Similarly, New South Wales Premier Chris Minns condemned the act, emphasizing that violence and vandalism are not acceptable means of expression in Australia. The consulate, affected by similar incidents in the past, remained closed temporarily, with plans to resume operations soon.