Several Canadian Jewish organizations and hospitals have been targeted with bomb threats, causing concern and fear within the community.
According to reports, multiple bomb threats were made on Monday, January 10th, against various Jewish institutions across Canada. These threats were received through phone calls and emails, prompting immediate evacuations and police investigations.
Among the targeted organizations were the Jewish Community Centre of Greater Vancouver, the Calgary Jewish Community Centre, and the Jewish Community Centre of Greater Toronto. In addition, several hospitals, including Mount Sinai Hospital and the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, also received bomb threats.
The threats were taken seriously by authorities, with police and bomb squads quickly responding to the scenes. Thankfully, no explosives were found and no injuries were reported.
The Jewish community has expressed deep concern and frustration over these threats, which are unfortunately not uncommon. In recent years, there has been a rise in anti-Semitic incidents and hate crimes targeting the Jewish community in Canada and around the world.
In response to these threats, the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) has called for increased security measures and for the government to take action against hate crimes. In a statement, CIJA CEO Shimon Koffler Fogel said, “We are deeply disturbed by these threats and stand in solidarity with the targeted institutions and the Jewish community as a whole.”
The Canadian government has also condemned the threats, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stating, “These acts of hatred and violence have no place in our country and will not be tolerated.”
Investigations into the bomb threats are ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. In the meantime, the affected institutions have resumed their operations and are working closely with law enforcement to ensure the safety of their staff and visitors.
The Jewish community and its allies are standing strong against these acts of hate and are determined to continue promoting peace and unity. As the investigations continue, it is important for all Canadians to stand together against hate and discrimination in all its forms.
