Sydney restaurateur Al Yazbek dropped from Nomad Group after Nazi symbol furore
A prominent hospitality group has cut ties with one of its co-founders after he was arrested for displaying a Nazi symbol at a pro-Palestine rally.
A prominent restaurateur who caused outrage after allegedly displaying a Nazi symbol at a pro-Palestine rally has been cut from the hospitality company he co-founded.
Al Yazbek was arrested following marches on October 6 marking one year since the beginning of the war in Gaza.
His “furious” wife and business partner Rebecca released a statement on Wednesday announcing NOMAD Group co-director Al Yazbek was “no longer involved in the management of the business.”
“Two weeks ago, our co-director, Al Yazbek, behaved in a way that offended a lot of people,” the statement said.
“We deeply regret the impact his actions have had on the community, and for that, we sincerely apologise.
“As a result, he is no longer involved in the management of the business.”
“As both his wife and business partner, I was furious with his actions and heartbroken by the harm they caused,” Ms Yazbek said.
“I fully understand the disappointment and frustration felt by those affected, and I am committed to doing everything possible to restore your trust.”
Mr Yazbek had previously apologised for his alleged actions.
He and his wife own up-market restaurants Nomad Sydney and Nomad Melbourne, as well as Reine & La Rue.
But following publicity around his arrest, the restaurants experienced cancellations.
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Police allege the 56-year-old man displayed the swastika on a sign pictured as showing the Israeli flag.
Mr Yazbek is expected to appear in court on Thursday.
More to come