Early morning on December 18, 2023, the Congregation Beth Tikvah synagogue and community center on West Park Boulevard, Dollard-des-Ormeaux, once again became the target of arson when firebombs were deployed, causing damage but thankfully resulting in no injuries. This incident marks the second assault on the synagogue since November 2023, reflecting rising tensions within the Jewish community of Montreal.
The Montreal police received emergency calls shortly before 3 a.m., leading them to quickly extinguish the flames and investigate the remnants of what appeared to be a crude firebomb. Although the damage included shattered windows and smoke, its quick resolution ensured the protection of the largely populated religious space. According to police spokesperson Véronique Dubuc, preliminary reports indicated sightings of suspicious activity nearby at the time of the incident. Investigators have stated they will be examining local surveillance footage to identify any suspects involved and to understand the conditions surrounding the attack.
The recurring attacks on the synagogue coincide with growing concerns over antisemitism across Canada. "This vile act of violence, occurring so close to Hanukkah, is a direct assault on the Jewish community as well as a stark reminder of the alarming rise in antisemitism and hate crimes targeting Jews across Canada," remarked Michael Levitt, president and CEO of the Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center (FSWC). He called for immediate action to combat this trend and hold responsible those perpetuating such heinous acts.
Rabbi Saul Emanuel, executive director of the Jewish Community Council of Montreal, expressed his distress over the second assault on the same location, stating, "This second attack on the same location is deeply disturbing and a stark reminder of the persistence of anti-Semitic hatred. This is not an isolated incident — it is a repeated assault on a cornerstone of our community." His words resonate deeply within the community, highlighting the need for enhanced security to protect vulnerable congregants and facilities.
Political reactions to the incident have been swift. Pierre Poilievre, leader of the Conservative Party, condemned the attack on social media, labeling it "another brazen act of antisemitic hate and violence overnight," and criticized the prevailing atmosphere of danger for Canadian Jews since the Liberal government had taken office. Poilievre's comments reflect the growing outrage from various political and community factions, highlighting increasing concern for safety amid rising hate crimes.
Yair Szlak, president and CEO of Federation CJA, which serves as the largest Jewish organization across the region, echoed similar sentiments, stating, "This is another cowardly act... We call on authorities to treat this incident with the utmost seriousness and recognize it as part of broader trends of intolerance and aggression targeting Jewish communities nationwide." Szlak emphasized the necessity for proactive measures against the coming tide of hate, appealing to city officials like Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante to take substantive action.
Mayor Plante herself has voiced her commitment to keeping the Jewish community safe. Local leaders, including Dollard-des-Ormeaux Mayor Alex Bottausci, affirmed, "This cowardly act of antisemitism will not be tolerated. The safety of our residents is our top priority, and any threat to stability and peace will be dealt with immediately." Bottausci reassured community members of their commitment to law enforcement efforts and community solidarity.
The recent attacks have sparked renewed discussions about the security of Jewish institutions within Montreal, as Rabbi Emanuel mentioned the need to heighten protection measures to prevent future acts of violence against the community. His affirmation, "These repeated attacks are meant to instill fear, but our community remains resolute. We will not be intimidated," exemplifies the determination among community leaders to stand firm against such threats.
This attack is part of broader negative trends affecting not only the Montreal region but echoing similar unfortunate circumstances faced by Jewish institutions nationwide. B’nai Brith Canada’s regional director, Henry Topas, poignantly described the alarming state of affairs, asserting, "It's a terrifying reminder Montreal is increasingly unsafe for Jewish people." He pointed to these incidents as undeniable patterns stemming from political inertia concerning rising antisemitic hate.
Within the local narrative are the past events tied to the community, including the previous attacks at the synagogue. Just weeks after the infamous attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, this latest act of violence appears reflective of increasing hostilities targeting Jewish places of worship. Media reports indicate at least seven instances of attacks against Jewish institutions statewide within the past year, sustaining the narrative of fear and tension infused within the community atmosphere.
Various community members continue to share their concerns over the detrimental impact these attacks have on their sense of safety. Local resident Lissa Albert noted her anger and disappointment, stating, "We’ve seen this happen before... these attacks always include the school or community center, so it’s coordinated... They will fail because all they’re doing is strengthening our resolve." Such statements reflect the resilience and solidarity felt within the community, even when faced with overwhelming challenges.
Moving forward, the Jewish community of Montreal remains steadfast, igniting discussions about the importance of solidarity against hate and the necessity for action and justice to safeguard the sanctity of their faith and cultural identity. All eyes remain trained on local leaders and authorities, urging them to stand firm against acts of hatred and seek justice for those impacted by these cowardly assaults.
