In the past few days, Toronto has seen a series of attacks on synagogues, including four antisemitic arson attacks in three days. The most recent incident occurred early Wednesday morning at the Kehillat Shaarei Torah Synagogue in North York. Around 2:30 a.m., a person on a motorcycle allegedly set fire to three signs on the synagogue property. The signs read “Jewish Federation of Toronto,” “Bring the hostages home,” and “Support Israel”.

This attack is not an isolated event. It marks the fourth instance of vandalism at this particular synagogue since April, with previous incidents involving smashed windows. Additionally, signs outside another Toronto synagogue were also reportedly set on fire on the same night.

Antisemitic Incidents:

These recent attacks come amid a broader context of escalating antisemitism in Canada. According to B’nai Brith Canada’s Annual Audit of Antisemitic Incidents, the number of antisemitic incidents in the country more than doubled from 2022 to 2023, reaching a record high of 5,791 documented acts of violence, harassment, and vandalism targeting Jews.

The surge in antisemitism has been particularly pronounced since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack on Israel. Over half of the incidents recorded in 2023 occurred in the three months following this event. The increase in antisemitic acts has left many Canadian Jews feeling vulnerable and questioning the safety of their communities.

The rise in antisemitism is not limited to physical attacks. There has been a significant increase in online harassment, with 4,847 incidents recorded in 2023. These included threats, expressions of glee at the deaths caused by Hamas on October 7, and declarations of intent to eradicate Israel or Jews.

The Canadian Government Is Concerned About:

Canadian officials and community leaders have expressed deep concern over this trend. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau acknowledged the “disturbing increase in antisemitism to a scale we had not witnessed for generations” since October 7. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre highlighted the targeting of Jewish buildings and homes, noting that some Jewish Canadians are making “heart-wrenching decisions” not to wear religious symbols out of fear.

The situation calls for urgent action at all levels of society. Law enforcement agencies, including Toronto police’s hate crimes unit, are actively investigating these incidents. However, addressing the root causes of antisemitism will require a comprehensive approach involving education, community outreach, and more robust legal measures to combat hate crimes.