In a disturbing incident that highlights rising tensions in the wake of the Israel-Hamas conflict, a synagogue and a Jewish community center in Montreal, Canada, were targeted in attempted firebomb attacks. The incidents occurred earlier this week in Dollard-des-Ormeaux, a predominantly English-speaking suburb.

The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), a group representing Jewish communities across Canada, confirmed the attempted firebombing at the Congregation Beth Tikvah and a center in West Island. Thankfully, no injuries were reported in either attack.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed his deep concern over the incidents, stating that antisemitism is completely unacceptable and should always be condemned. He pledged to work closely with Jewish communities to combat the hatred. The CIJA echoed these sentiments, declaring that antisemitism must be called out and the perpetrators held accountable for their actions.

Montreal Police are currently investigating the incidents, according to the CIJA. The extent of the damage was reported to be minor at the synagogue and a small fire ignited at the back door of the Federation CJA building across the street. Authorities have not yet provided further details or comments on the ongoing investigation.

Yair Szlak, the president and CEO of Federation CJA, expressed relief that no one was injured but expressed anger towards the acts of violence. Meanwhile, Eta Yudin, vice-president of CIJA-Quebec, revealed that there have been numerous alleged hate crimes and hateful incidents against Jews since the start of the Israel-Hamas conflict, with over a dozen reported cases.

These incidents come at a time when both Jewish and Muslim communities are facing threats amid the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict. Tragically, a 69-year-old Jewish man lost his life during clashes between pro-Israel and pro-Palestine demonstrators in California. Additionally, a Cornell University student was charged with making violent antisemitic threats, the University of Pennsylvania reported receiving disturbing antisemitic emails threatening violence against Jewish students, and a hate crime investigation is underway at Stanford University after an Arab Muslim student was involved in a hit-and-run incident.

The attempted firebomb attacks in Montreal serve as a somber reminder of the urgent need to address and confront the issue of antisemitism and promote unity and understanding among different communities. Officials, community leaders, and individuals must work together to ensure the safety and well-being of all groups affected by such acts of hatred.