One man has been charged by police and another is recovering in hospital following an alleged stabbing attack - after a disagreement over herring at a synagogue kiddush.

The incident took place last Shabbat at a shul in Melbourne, Australia.

The JC understands there was an argument between two men over either cake or herring.

One man in his 20s was stabbed in the abdomen after the service at the Rambam Sephardi Shul in the city's Hotham Street.

He is currently being treated in hospital where he is thought to be in a serious condition.

He is apparently known to his alleged attacker, who fled the synagogue.

Melbourne Jewish community security group has issued a report stating that the offender was intoxicated.

All venues in the St Kilda East and Caulfield areas were placed into lock-down following the incident.

A police spokesperson told the JC: "Police have arrested a 46-year-old man following a stabbing in Hotham Street, St Kilda East on Saturday.

"He has been charged with intentionally causing serious injury, recklessly causing serious injury and assault with a weapon.

"He was bailed to appear at Melbourne magistrates court on September 23."