Recent incidents of anti-Semitism in Canada have left the Jewish community feeling targeted and vulnerable. The latest attack occurred at a Vancouver synagogue on Thursday evening, where an incendiary device was used against the Schara Tzedeck synagogue, causing minor damage to a door. Fortunately, no injuries were reported as people were inside the building at the time.
The Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver condemned the attack as a deliberate act of hatred aimed at intimidating the Jewish community. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also spoke out against the incident, calling it despicable and stating that such hatred and violence cannot be tolerated in Canada. In response to these incidents, the police have increased their presence in front of local Jewish institutions.
Deborah Lyons, Canada’s special envoy for the memory of the Holocaust and the fight against anti-Semitism, emphasized the need for action in response to these hate crimes. She urged all levels of government to address the emergency by enforcing the law and not allowing hate incidents to go unaddressed. These attacks come amidst tensions linked to the conflict in Gaza Strip, which has seen significant casualties on both sides.
In November, a Jewish faith school in Montreal was targeted by gunfire twice in the same week. The situation remains tense, and efforts are being made to ensure the safety and security of Jewish communities in Canada. It is crucial for authorities to take a firm stance against anti-Semitism and work to prevent further attacks in the future.
