The Israeli National Security Council issued a warning yesterday regarding an increased risk to Jewish and Israeli communities abroad. While such advisories are not unusual during periods of heightened tension, the current circumstances warrant careful attention.

Israeli authorities periodically issue security advisories to Israeli citizens travelling abroad, based on the global threat landscape. As each community has distinct security considerations and risk factors, local threat assessments are critical in understanding how to respond to the global situation.

JSN's security guidance to the community remains that this is a time for Jewish life to continue with heightened vigilance, reinforced security protocols, and active participation from community members.

Iran and its proxies have historically targeted Jewish and Israeli interests outside the Middle East. For this reason, it is important that communities remain alert and take sensible precautions.

Several recent incidents in Greater Toronto involving gunfire directed at buildings overnight, with one such incident targeting our community this week at Temple Emanu-El, serve as a reminder that the environment we operate in requires continued vigilance.

JSN is in ongoing contact with Canadian law enforcement and intelligence partners.

They are actively investigating the recent incidents and continue working to ensure the safety and security of the community. We will remain in close coordination with them and will provide updates if the situation changes.

In the meantime, we encourage everyone to follow these practical steps:

• When in public spaces, stay aware of your surroundings and avoid unnecessary distractions.
• Be attentive when arriving at or leaving Jewish institutions or events.
• Pay attention to unusual or suspicious people, vehicles, or objects around community facilities.
• Do not allow unknown individuals access to buildings or secured spaces.
• If you have received JSN training, consider assisting with volunteer security at your synagogue or community institution.
• Please cooperate with security personnel and law enforcement when they are conducting checks or managing access.

If you witness suspicious activity, experience a concerning incident, or have a security question, please contact JSN’s 24/7 Security Operations Centre: 437-222-3999. In an emergency, always call 911 first.

Security is a shared responsibility. Awareness, communication, and cooperation are some of the most effective tools we have to keep our community safe.