In Ottawa, Canada, law enforcement has filed terrorism charges against a minor, whose identity remains confidential, for allegedly planning an attack targeting the local Jewish community. The youth appeared in an Ottawa courthouse on Shabbos, facing two charges, and has been detained until the next court appearance scheduled for Monday.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) disclosed that the youth is accused of facilitating terrorist activity by sharing instructional material related to an explosive substance. Additionally, he faces charges of instructing, directly or indirectly, someone to carry out a terrorist activity against Jewish individuals. The police did not specify a particular target for the alleged attack.
According to two national security sources, the plot is believed to be religiously motivated, with the focus on the Jewish community. The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) expressed deep concerns about the increase in antisemitic incitement and hatred in Canada since October 7, calling the situation a disturbing manifestation of unchecked antisemitism in the country.
In response to the arrest, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre emphasized the need to address the rise of antisemitism, linking it to the recent attack by Hamas on Israel. He commended the RCMP for their efforts in thwarting the threat and protecting the community, urging increased measures against anti-Jewish hatred.
Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe wrote that he was “shocked to learn the details of a planned attack against Ottawa’s Jewish community.”
“There has been a rise in antisemitism in Ottawa in recent weeks. I’m grateful and relieved that in this case, through strong investigative work, the RCMP and the Ottawa Police were able to avert this planned event before it happened. The Ottawa Police Service will continue to patrol synagogues and other Jewish institutions. There is no place for any hatred, racism, or violence in our community. We must continue to work together and do everything possible to ensure our city is safe for everyone,” he added.
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