Sydney Nurses Under Investigation for Antisemitic Comments

Sydney, Australia — Two nurses at Bankstown Hospital in Sydney are under criminal investigation for making shocking antisemitic remarks during a video chat. Their statements, aired on social media, suggested they would deny treatment to Israeli patients, provoking outrage across the nation.

The New South Wales health workers, who have since been suspended, were recorded declaring that they would kill Israeli patients if required to treat them. One nurse, who falsely claimed to be a doctor, went so far as to imply that he had already harmed Israeli patients, as reported by 9News.

The incident has unfolded against a backdrop of increasing antisemitic attacks in Australia. In recent months, incidents have included vandalism of synagogues and Jewish-owned property, adding alarm to a community already on edge.

During the video conversation with Jewish content creator Max Veifer, the female nurse remarked, “If patients from that country came to our hospital, I would not treat them. I’ll kill them.” The male nurse echoed her sentiments, saying, “You’re going to get killed and you’re going to go to hell.”

Veifer shared the disturbing dialogue on TikTok, which quickly circulated, eliciting widespread condemnation. In response, the Bankstown Police Area Command announced an investigation into the recorded content.

“Officers attached to Strike Force Pearl have taken charge of the investigation,” stated the New South Wales police. “NSW Health believes they have identified the individuals involved and are assisting detectives.”

Local media reported that the video was sent to New South Wales Health Minister Ryan Park at 7:20 a.m., leading to the nurses’ suspension by 10 a.m. Park publicly apologized to the Jewish community and affirmed their right to receive “first-class care” in Australian hospitals.

Federal Health Minister Mark Butler condemned the remarks, stating that “every health professional is obliged to care for whomever comes before you.” He emphasized that excluding a specific group from care is antithetical to Australia’s healthcare principles, calling the video “particularly sickening.”

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also responded, labeling the comments “sickening and shameful,” noting that they stem from hate. He affirmed that the matter had been referred to NSW Police for criminal investigation, stressing that those found guilty of antisemitic acts will face stringent legal repercussions. Under current laws, such offenses could incur penalties between 12 months and six years in jail.

The incident exemplifies a troubling surge in antisemitism, prompting leaders to call for vigilance and unity against hatred in Australia.