Two health professionals in Australia have found themselves in hot water after video recordings of their offensive comments towards Israeli patients went viral, igniting widespread condemnation. The two individuals, affiliated with Bankstown Hospital near Sydney, were captured on camera discussing their refusal to treat Israeli patients and making menacing remarks.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese swiftly reacted to the incident, labeling the workers’ statements as “sickening and shameful.” He emphasized the severity of their remarks and stated that their actions contribute to a troubling trend of antisemitism, which has been on the rise in Australia in recent weeks. Albaneze also disclosed that the workers have been suspended from their roles pending further investigation.
The video, which has sparked outrage online, was brought to public attention by a pro-Israel content creator, heightening its visibility. It shows one worker, wearing scrubs and a hijab, expressing her refusal to treat the patients and stating, “I’ll kill them,” while her colleague gestured ominously across his neck.
In response to the public outcry, Albanese highlighted that the incident would be addressed with appropriate seriousness and that the two individuals involved have been referred to law enforcement to assess if any criminal charges should be pursued. The situation underscores the importance of maintaining ethical standards in healthcare and the need for all patients to be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their background.