Vancouver, Canada – A disturbing arson attack targeted the Schara Tzedeck synagogue on Oak Street in Vancouver, Canada. The incident took place late Thursday night after services had concluded, with individuals inside the synagogue hearing a loud noise outside. The building was set on fire by an individual who poured fuel on the front doors, causing damage to the entrance.
Rabbi Andrew Rosenblatt expressed shock at the brazen attack, noting that the flames reached the second story of the synagogue before being extinguished. Authorities are investigating the incident as arson and a possible hate crime, as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the act as a “disgusting act of antisemitism.” The Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver described the attack as a deliberate act of hate and an attempt to intimidate the Jewish community.
The synagogue was fortunate to escape major damage, with the fire being swiftly contained and no injuries reported. However, the incident is part of a disturbing trend of antisemitic attacks across Canada, with recent incidents involving bullet holes found at Jewish schools in Montreal and Toronto. Various political figures and leaders have voiced their condemnation of these hateful acts, calling for action to combat antisemitism and ensure the safety of Jewish institutions.
In response to the alarming rise in antisemitic incidents, efforts are being made to enhance security at Jewish gathering places. Liberal MP Anthony Housefather urged for changes to the Criminal Code to protect these institutions and proposed the creation of safe zones to prevent protests. Additionally, there are calls for extremist groups to be labeled as terrorist organizations to address the root causes of these targeted attacks.
Community leaders and organizations like the Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center have expressed outrage over the violence directed at the Vancouver synagogue. B.C. Premier David Eby condemned the arson attack as a reprehensible act of antisemitism that has no place in the province. As investigations continue, the Jewish community remains on edge, calling for solidarity and action to combat hate crimes targeting their institutions.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the enduring threat of bigotry and intolerance faced by Jewish communities, underscoring the need for greater vigilance and solidarity in the face of rising antisemitism. As authorities work to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack, the community rallies together to ensure the safety and security of their places of worship.