Israel’s bombing of Lebanon has had far-reaching effects, even reaching as far as the suburbs of Sydney and Melbourne in Australia. In areas such as Bankstown in Sydney and Coburg in Melbourne, where the Lebanese community is prominent in local businesses and places of worship, the impact of Israel’s actions on Lebanon has sparked new trauma. Many Lebanese Australians still have family in Lebanon, leading to heightened anxiety and sleepless nights as they follow the news closely. The images of destruction and violence from Lebanon are particularly distressing for those who have experienced previous conflicts in their homeland, such as the civil war and Israeli invasions.
The Lebanese community in Australia, while not the largest migrant population, has deep roots in the country. Lebanese cuisine, culture, and traditions have become an integral part of Australian society. Despite historical conflicts, the community remains united in support of their homeland during times of crisis. The recent evacuation of Australian citizens from Lebanon due to the conflict has further highlighted the resilience of the Lebanese community.
However, in the wake of the conflict, there has been a concerning rise in Islamophobia in Australia, particularly since the Hamas attack against Israel. Incidents of anti-Muslim hate have increased, leading to tensions within the diverse Muslim community in Australia. Adel Salman, chair of the Islamic Council of Victoria, has expressed concerns about the government’s pro-Israel stance and the impact it has on the Muslim community. The government’s position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and its continued weapons trade with Israel have led to feelings of alienation among Australian Muslims.
Despite these challenges, the Lebanese and Muslim communities in Australia continue to stand in solidarity with their homeland and advocate for peace. Protests in support of Palestine have taken place in Sydney and Melbourne, reflecting the deep concern and solidarity felt by many Australians towards the ongoing conflict in the region.