Tensions between the Muslim community and the federal government escalated as Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was heckled during a visit to Lakemba Mosque in south-west Sydney, reported 9News.
Albanese, accompanied by Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke, attended the mosque ahead of Eid al-Fitr, which marks the conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan. The two leaders were seated during an address to the congregation when a group of protesters interrupted, shouting slogans such as “shame,” “disgrace,” and “genocide supporters.”
Community members and the speaker attempted to calm the situation, but the protesters continued. Despite the disruption, both Albanese and Burke remained seated as proceedings went on. However, after about 15 minutes, their security team advised them to leave.
Police in New South Wales responded to reports of a disturbance at the mosque around 8 a.m. A 33-year-old man was directed to move on and was escorted out without further incident. The individual, identified as Sheikh Mukhlis, later claimed in a social media video that he was forcibly removed while barefoot after confronting the leaders.
In his remarks, he questioned the presence of political figures at a sacred gathering, particularly during a significant religious occasion. He also referred to the sermon’s message, which highlighted that the community’s joy remains incomplete amid ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon.
The incident reflects broader divisions within the Muslim community regarding engagement with the federal government. Friction has grown over the government’s response to the war in Gaza, rising Islamophobia in Australia, and policing actions during recent protests involving Muslim worshippers.
Lebanese Muslim Association, which manages the mosque, had invited Albanese for the first time since October 2023. Its secretary, Hajj Gamel Kheir, said the decision to re-engage was aimed at ensuring the community’s concerns are directly heard.
“Engagement is necessary for meaningful dialogue,” he said, adding that distancing from authorities had not led to improved outcomes.
Following the incident, Albanese shared a message on social media, describing it as an honour to join thousands at the mosque and extending greetings of Eid Mubarak.
The mosque itself has reportedly received multiple threatening messages in recent months, contributing to a sense of unease within the local community.
