Shocked Online: How Canadian Residents Are Posing With Sinwar
Antisemitic hate incidents in Canada hit record highs: A 670% increase in violent incidents against Jews in the country. Synagogues attacked, shootings at Jewish educational institutions, and a display glorifying Yahya Sinwar on the streets of Toronto. The Jewish community lives in fear: "Don't feel safe even with a kippah on the street."
- יצחק איתן
- פורסם כ"א כסלו התשפ"ה
(Photo: shutterstock) #VALUE!
The Jewish community in Canada is experiencing an unprecedented wave of antisemitic violence. Last Wednesday, another shooting was reported at the Jewish girls' school "Beit Chaya Mushka" in Toronto – the third incident since May. "We weren't surprised," says Esther Mordechai, a veteran member of the community. "We said it would happen after October 7th. My father always said: 'You will never feel safe in exile.'"
On Friday, a Molotov cocktail was thrown at the "Beit Tikva" synagogue in Montreal – another hate crime in a growing list of violent events. The pro-Palestinian demonstrations in Canada, often turning violent, have led to further disturbing incidents: In Montreal, a pro-Palestinian protestor was documented giving a Nazi salute and calling for the "final solution." In Toronto, during a rally supporting Israel, a display glorifying terror leader Yahya Sinwar was set up – becoming an attraction for passersby. "People posed with it as if he were a cultural hero. It was crazy," a community member told ynet.
According to an official report, 70% of hate crimes in Canada target Jews, who make up only 1.4% of the population. "It feels like we are constantly in the crosshairs," community members testify. "Walking down the street with a kippah has become dangerous," says Ran Mayer, an Israeli Jew who lived in Canada.
Shani, an Israeli residing in Toronto, paints a bleak picture and told the site: "Protesters are marking Jewish places, businesses, and even children's sports games. It's not just anti-Zionism – it's blatant antisemitism."
The violent events not only cause physical harm but also leave emotional scars on community members. "It's very hard for my family in Canada," Mayer adds. "They are considering moving to Israel, but leaving is not easy."
The events in Canada are yet another testimony to the alarming rise in hatred towards Jews worldwide – a situation that continues to worsen, as Jewish communities find themselves struggling to maintain their identity and security.