There may be some nuances to this story that are only known or apparent to Australians, but the core message that "You can't build a synagogue here because it might lead to a terrorist attack in the neighborhood" sure sounds like those hypothetical terrorists have already won their point.
A Sydney suburb bans construction of a synagogue because of terrorism fears
Jewish leaders said the decision, “effectively placed in jeopardy the future of Jewish life in Australia.”
I hadn't heard of this. Strangely, the national broadcaster, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, has not covered this.
The linked article doesn't actually give the background story so I had to search it.
The local government entity involved, Waverley Council, says that they didn't ban it; the State Land and Environment Court did so. However, it went to the court automatically because the council did not make a ruling within a prescribed time so the application was deemed to be denied. No explanation was offered by the council for this.
The court's decision was influenced by the applicant's own threat assessment. As in: "You fear a terrorist incident yet your security isn't good enough."
The search produces headlines such as 'Australia bans…'; 'Court bans…' and 'Council bans…'
My assessment: This is Sydney being Sydney. Imagine a city with the mind of Donald Trump and you get the picture.
+Travis Bird Thanks for the perspective.
Yes, the terrorists have won, effectively.