OTTAWA, ONTARIO — The recent Israel-Hamas conflict has raised concerns in Canada, as the Canadian Security Intelligence Service warns of a surge in violent rhetoric from extremist groups that could potentially incite individuals to resort to violence. The agency has noted a rise in tensions within Canadian society, following the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
According to spokesperson Eric Balsam, the ongoing crisis has led to an increase in violent rhetoric from extremist actors since the Hamas attack. As a result, there is a possibility that these events could influence certain individuals’ susceptibility to mobilize towards violent actions. The Canadian Security Intelligence Service’s primary role is to monitor and identify any threats that may arise and promptly alert the government about them. It is important to note that lawful protests and dissent are protected under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms and are not within the agency’s jurisdiction.
Reports reveal that federal officials engaged in discussions with both Muslim and Jewish leaders last fall regarding the reported rise in hate crimes triggered by the conflict. The Canadian Security Intelligence Service representatives assured leaders from both communities that they would continue to monitor threats and remain vigilant for any signs of planned attacks. Director David Vigneault also met with the federal envoy to combat antisemitism and Islamophobia, emphasizing ongoing dialogues with Muslim and Jewish community leaders to address their concerns.
During these discussions, concerns were raised by Muslim and Arab leaders regarding the public rhetoric surrounding the war. They expressed apprehensions over the potential impact of the Middle East situation on the safety of Palestinians and other Muslims residing in Canada. Furthermore, there were discussions about the limitations on free speech, with activists facing backlash and consequences for certain chants and calls for activism.
Internal emails obtained through access-to-information laws indicated that law enforcement agencies were monitoring protests and gatherings to ensure there was no escalation to violence. Several incidents, including a pro-Palestinian protest in Toronto in late October, were under scrutiny. Notably, Jewish leaders, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and others condemned instances of protesters glorifying the Hamas attack, calling for immediate action to curb hateful rhetoric expressed at rallies.
In response to Jewish leaders’ concerns, measures were proposed to equip front-line law enforcement officers with a “tool kit” explaining the conflict’s historical context to help identify signs of hate at protests. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) was urged to focus on not only protecting synagogues and community centers but also Jewish businesses and schools. Additionally, efforts were made to engage universities in addressing rising tensions and antisemitism on campuses, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a safe and inclusive environment for all students.
As the aftermath of the conflict continues to unfold, authorities remain vigilant in monitoring and addressing potential threats and incidents arising from the Israel-Hamas conflict, ensuring the safety and security of all communities in Canada.