The U.S. consulate in Sydney was targeted by a vandal who smashed windows and spray-painted its doors with a sledgehammer early Monday morning. The incident, which occurred around 3 a.m. local time, has drawn condemnation from Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
“I would just say that people should have respectful political debate and discourse,” Albanese stated. “Actions like vandalizing the U.S. Consulate do not advance the cause of those who have committed what is clearly a crime against property.”
Images captured at the scene show inverted red triangles painted on the building’s doors. According to Reuters, this symbol has been associated with anti-Israel protesters. CBC News also notes that the symbol has been used by Hamas to identify individuals in videos.
Nine windows were reportedly damaged in the attack, and the suspect responsible remains at large.
“CCTV footage has been obtained showing a person wearing a dark-colored hoodie with their face concealed, carrying what appears to be a small sledgehammer,” a police spokesperson told Reuters.
A spokesperson for the consulate confirmed to Reuters that operations inside the building have not been affected and that “Australian Federal Police and New South Wales Police are investigating the incident.”
This is not the first time the consulate has been targeted. In April, the building was vandalized with graffiti including the words “Freee (sic) Gaza.” The U.S. Consulate in Melbourne was also vandalized by anti-Israel demonstrators on May 31.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns expressed disapproval of the vandalism, stating that the vast majority of Australians do not condone such actions.
“We can make our point in this country without resorting to violence or malicious behavior,” Minns said.