Israel has raised its travel alert for Canadians to a “potential threat level,” citing increased risks of terrorist attacks against Israelis and Jews in Canada. This warning was issued by Israel’s National Security Council on Sunday, coinciding with the annual Walk with Israel event held in cities like Toronto and Vancouver.
The notice from Israel pointed out that anti-Israel groups were planning protests to counter the Walk with Israel rallies. It expressed concern over escalating rhetoric that could lead to violence against attendees. As a precaution, the Israeli government advised participants to heed police instructions and to avoid confrontations with protestors.
In Toronto, police reported an arrest made during the Walk with Israel event. A man was charged with mischief and causing a disturbance after allegedly shouting anti-Semitic slurs at participants. Toronto’s Deputy Chief Lauren Pogue noted that police were aware of potential disruptions and had a significant presence at the event.
The Walk with Israel has been organized by Canadian Jewish groups for over five decades. This year, the event drew attention as tensions rose amid ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, particularly following Hamas’s attacks on Israel and Israel’s military response in Gaza.
The Israeli warning also urged individuals traveling to Canada or already in the country to take extra precautions. It advised against displaying Jewish or Israeli symbols publicly and encouraged heightened vigilance in public spaces. This comes in light of a noted increase in attacks and threats against Jewish institutions in Canada over the past year and a half, particularly since the outbreak of hostilities on October 7, 2023.
Earlier that same day, Toronto police announced the arrest of a man for making hate-motivated death threats against the Israeli community on social media. The suspect, Basel Al-Sukhon, was charged with uttering threats and indecent communications.
As the Walk with Israel event took place, Israel continued its military operations in Gaza, which have resulted in significant casualties. The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry reported that Israeli airstrikes killed at least 38 people in a 24-hour period.
Prime Minister Mark Carney, along with leaders from France and the UK, called for humanitarian aid to be allowed into Gaza, warning of potential sanctions if Israel did not comply. This statement was met with criticism from Israeli officials and some Canadian political leaders.
The situation remains tense, with the Israeli government planning to tighten its control over Gaza, a move that has faced backlash from Palestinians and the international community.