OTTAWA – Following the horrific mass shooting at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, the Center for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) has called on the Canadian government to take urgent measures to ensure the protection of the Jewish community in Canada. The organization’s demand comes after a father and son duo opened fire during a Hanukkah celebration in Australia, killing 15 people.
Noah Shack, CEO of CIJA, emphasized the need for proactive steps to prevent such violence from occurring on Canadian soil. “The ingredients that led to the tragedy in Australia are present here in Canada as well,” Shack stated, pointing to an “unchecked rise of violent antisemitic extremism.”
While the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) reported that there is currently no specific or imminent threat in Canada, they warned of the “realistic possibility” of extremist attacks targeting Jewish neighborhoods, schools, and places of worship. CIJA has urged the government to Strictly enforce existing laws against those who radicalize others or incite violence. Fast-track the removal of high-risk individuals with links to foreign terrorist organizations. Strengthen immigration screening to prevent extremists from entering the country.
In response to the heightened anxiety, Minister of Public Safety Gary Anandasangaree held a high-level meeting with Jewish community leaders, the RCMP, CSIS, and the Canada Border Services Agency. The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment, stating, “We will always support and stand with Jewish communities across Canada.”
Community leaders have reiterated that attacks on the Jewish community are not just local issues but represent an assault on fundamental Canadian values. Following the incident, police forces in major cities like Toronto and Montreal have already increased their presence and vigilance around Jewish community centers and holiday events to ensure public safety.
