As sunset approached in the south-western Sydney suburb of Lakemba last week, the street outside the Imam Ali bin Abi Taleb Mosque filled with thousands of people - most of whom found a seat at one of many trestle tables covered with white table cloths.

The mosque was hosting a community Iftar: the evening meal that marks the end of daily fasting in Ramadan.

The tables were divided into sections, marked by buffet stations labelled 'women' and 'men', and as the sun went down families brought out boxes of dates to break their fast, offering them around to neighbours and other guests.

Yet despite the family-friendly vibe of this event, a police surveillance trailer parked in the road - complete with 360 cameras on tall poles - spoke to fears among the community. After being on the receiving end of several threats, community leaders requested extra police presence throughout Ramadan. They also employed private security.

'We are going through very challenging times at the moment for the Muslim community and Australia in general,' said Gamel Kheir, secretary of the Lebanese Muslim Association, who organised the community Iftar. 'If ever there was a need for communities to come together and break bread, I would say this year is more [important] than ever.'

Islamophobia is on the rise in Australia. Threats towards Muslims used to average around 2.5 cases a week, according to the Islamophobia Register Australia. But since Hamas attacked Israel on 7 October, 2023, reported incidents have increased by 636%.

Amid increasing concerns, community leaders are hopeful that events like these can strengthen bonds and foster resilience against the backdrop of a fearful climate.