The Lebanese Muslim Association, which oversees the Lakemba Mosque, reported that they received a letter in the mail today.

“This marks the third such letter we have received, and the perpetrator has yet to be identified,” a spokesperson explained.

The previous letter included a disturbing image of the Lakemba Mosque engulfed in flames with people inside.

This has understandably left the community feeling anxious and fearful, according to the Lebanese Muslim Association.

“Community members have reached out to us, voicing their concerns that an incident may occur, especially considering the prevailing tensions in the wider environment,” the spokesperson noted.

“Families are understandably worried. Parents are apprehensive about bringing their children to prayers. No community in Australia should have to endure such fear,” they added.

“Thousands of families, elderly members and young children will attend nightly prayers. Every Australian should be able to practise their faith safely and without fear,” the spokesperson said. 

The Lebanese Muslim Association has also formally written to the state government to strengthen security measures, including upgraded CCTV and funded security personnel during Ramadan.

Police are investigating and will increase patrols around the Lakemba Mosque, religious sites and community events during the holy month of Ramadan.

Police and Counter-Terrorism Minister Yasmin Catley said community safety was the highest priority for both the police and government.

The Islamophobia Register Australia recorded a 530 per cent increase in Islamophobic incidents and more than 1500 cases reported since Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. 

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