Toronto, Ontario – The Canadian Security and Intelligence Service issues a warning regarding the spike in violent rhetoric from extremist actors following the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel. The agency expresses concerns that this rhetoric could potentially escalate to violence.
CSIS has been monitoring potentially dangerous behavior and identifying threats to be reported to the government and law enforcement. However, they clarify that their surveillance does not extend to government dissent or lawful protests protected under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
The Canadian Press obtained CSIS documents that detail discussions between federal officials and leaders from the Jewish and Muslim communities regarding escalating tensions domestically. These discussions delved into concerns over free speech and the need to monitor threats and evidence of planned attacks.
Jewish leaders have raised concerns over examples of protestors praising the Oct. 7 Hamas attack in various Canadian cities, with incidents under investigation by law enforcement. A report by B’nai Brith Canada reveals a significant increase in antisemitic incidents since the Hamas attack, occurring both online and in public spaces.
The report also highlights the impact of unrest in Israel on Jewish Canadians, with levels of antisemitism on the rise prior to the Israel-Hamas conflict. Federal officials have heard from Jewish leaders about the need for police intervention in rallies expressing hateful rhetoric.
RCMP has encouraged front-line members to monitor Jewish-owned businesses and schools for potential targeted attacks, not just community centers and synagogues. Public Safety Canada was also instructed to engage with universities to address rising tensions and antisemitism on campuses.
Since these discussions took place, pro-Palestinian protestors have established encampments on Canadian campuses to protest Israeli actions following the Oct. 7 attack. This ongoing situation continues to be monitored by authorities and community leaders to ensure the safety and security of all involved.