The chilling slogan, “Globalize the intifada,” was not an empty threat. It was a declaration of intent, openly voiced and displayed. In Australia, that intent manifested in unspeakable horror – a Hanukkah celebration shattered by gunfire, leaving eleven dead and countless wounded. The question now haunting Canada isn’t *if* something similar could happen here, but *when*, if a critical shift doesn’t occur.
For weeks, even months, the warnings have been clear. Protesters, often masked and emboldened, have openly expressed support for Hamas and, disturbingly, for the violent upheaval implied by “intifada.” Their agenda isn’t hidden; it’s proclaimed weekly through chants and signs. The tragedy in Sydney wasn’t a spontaneous outburst, but a horrifying culmination of escalating rhetoric and unchecked extremism.
The attack wasn’t about political disagreement; it was a targeted act of genocidal hatred, aimed at Jews simply because of who they are. Governments that have tolerated, or even courted, those who sympathize with terror bear a heavy responsibility. The time for cautious diplomacy is over. Decisive action is needed, and it’s needed now.
Toronto Police have rightly announced enhanced deployments in Jewish neighbourhoods, a necessary first step. But more must be done. Canada cannot afford to be complacent, to assume it’s immune to the virulent antisemitism spreading across the globe. The complacency displayed in Australia, where a Hanukkah party became a scene of unimaginable violence, must not be repeated.
The message must be unequivocal: anti-Jewish demonstrations will not be tolerated on roadways, near schools, businesses, or places of worship. Protests must be confined to designated public spaces – city halls, Parliament Hill, Queen’s Park – without obstruction or intimidation. The display of symbols advocating for violence, or the erasure of Jewish identity, must be met with swift and decisive legal consequences.
Ignoring the calls for “intifada” or dismissing slogans like “from the river to the sea” as mere political statements is a dangerous delusion. These are not calls for peace; they are expressions of hatred and incitement to violence. Authorities must recognize them as such and act accordingly, before words turn into further bloodshed.
Organizations like the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) and B’nai Brith Canada have issued urgent calls for a crackdown on antisemitic propaganda networks. CIJA CEO Noah Shack warned that Canada is not immune, demanding “urgent action from governments and law enforcement.” B’nai Brith implored authorities: “Do not wait for a Canadian Bondi Beach.”
The Australian police response itself is under scrutiny, with reports suggesting a disturbingly slow reaction to the unfolding attack. While lessons must be learned from this tragedy, the immediate priority is preventing a similar catastrophe on Canadian soil. A thwarted terror plot in Toronto in 2024 serves as a stark reminder of the very real threat.
Leaders must deliver a clear, unwavering message: those who target Jewish communities will be arrested and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. The desecration of synagogues, the removal of Mezuzahs, and any act of intimidation or violence against Jewish individuals will be met with zero tolerance. The time for ambiguity is over.
The outpouring of sympathy from Prime Minister Mark Carney, Ontario Premier Doug Ford, and Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow is a welcome start. However, expressions of solidarity are not enough. Concrete action is required – a firm commitment to protecting Jewish communities and a clear delineation of where protest ends and incitement to violence begins.
This isn’t simply about protecting one community; it’s about safeguarding the values of tolerance, respect, and security that underpin Canadian society. If Canada truly wants to prevent the globalization of terror, it must confront the festering hatred within its own borders, and do so before it’s too late.
As Hanukkah begins, a time of light and resilience, the question remains: are Canada’s leaders prepared to take the decisive steps necessary to ensure a safe and joyous celebration for all?
