More than 100 Jewish organizations across Canada were targeted by bomb threats early this morning. The threats, which were sent via identical emails at around 5:00 a.m. Eastern Time, have led to the evacuation of several buildings, including synagogues, community centers, and hospitals in major cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Ottawa. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from leaders across the country, who are calling for a united front against the rising tide of antisemitism.
The mass email campaign, described as both callous and frightening, was aimed primarily at Jewish institutions but also included threats against some hospitals. In response, police forces across Canada, with the RCMP taking the lead, have been working tirelessly to ensure the safety of these locations. In Toronto, for example, police evacuated and swept several buildings to search for any potential explosives. Although no bombs have been found so far, the incident has left the Jewish community on high alert and deeply shaken.
The latest wave of threats is part of a disturbing trend in Canada. According to recent statistics, although Jews make up only 1.2% of Canada’s population, they are disproportionately targeted in hate crimes. Over 50% of hate crimes in many jurisdictions are directed against Jewish people, with more than 70% of these crimes being religiously motivated. The increasing frequency and severity of these incidents have left the Jewish community feeling vulnerable and frustrated.
Anthony Housefather, the federal government’s special adviser on Jewish community relations and antisemitism, expressed his concern over the growing threat. “Unfortunately, this is not surprising anymore. Every day, we see new incidents of antisemitism, and it’s becoming almost routine. But it shouldn’t be. We need to see stronger actions and harsher penalties for those who engage in hate speech, threats, and violence.”
The bomb threats have prompted strong reactions from political leaders and law enforcement agencies. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau took to social media to express his outrage, stating, “I’m disgusted at reports that more than 100 Jewish institutions across Canada were targeted by threats today. This is blatant antisemitism. The RCMP is in contact with local law enforcement to investigate, and we’re working with them to keep Jewish Canadians safe.”
Conservative MP Melissa Lantsman also voiced her concerns, criticizing the government’s response to the growing antisemitism in Canada. “How on earth is this tolerated in Canada? Antisemitic hatred is spreading like a plague across our country. We must act now to protect our people. Canada is not the free country we know and love if the right to worship freely and safely needs to be protected.”
The RCMP has assured the public that they are taking the threats seriously and are working closely with local law enforcement to investigate and secure the targeted locations. In a statement, the RCMP emphasized, “We are aware of the threats made today to a number of institutions, including synagogues and hospitals, across Canada. We are actively responding to ensure locations are safe and secure.”
Jagmeet Singh, leader of the New Democratic Party, also condemned the threats, stating, “Threats like this are not only despicable and cowardly but must be taken with the utmost seriousness. Antisemitism and hate have no place in our country.”
Now, there is a growing consensus that more needs to be done to protect vulnerable communities and to hold those who spread hate accountable.