In the wake of the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, Canada’s Integrated Terrorist Assessment Centre (ITAC) has issued a critical warning: extremists motivated by the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict could potentially target crowds at events within our borders. The threat assessment agency cautions that mass violence might spill over into our country.
The strategic intelligence briefs, circulated last October and recently released to Global News, highlight the risk of attacks on protests, cultural centers, diplomatic posts, and other symbols associated with Israeli or Palestinian interests in Canada. According to ITAC, such attacks would likely be carried out by radicalized lone actors, using readily available weapons.
The conflict’s implications on Canadian soil are concerning. Ideologically and religiously motivated violent extremists may be triggered by events and mobilize towards violence, posing a threat to large gatherings. The government’s assessment underscores the need for vigilance and security measures.
In December 2023, Ottawa police arrested a youth charged with plotting a terrorist attack against the Jewish community. Additional charges were filed, accusing the suspect of conspiracy to commit murder at the direction of a terrorist group. A second youth faced similar charges related to murder conspiracy and facilitating terrorist activity. The alleged target was the Jewish community, with communication allegedly linked to the terrorist group ISIS.
As Canada grapples with rising hate crimes and antisemitism, it is crucial to remain vigilant and address potential threats. The government’s report serves as a stark reminder that our nation is not immune to the global impact of conflicts like the one between Israel and Hamas.
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