We are horrified by the brazen, antisemitic attack on a synagogue and a Turkish restaurant in Halle, Germany, on Yom Kippur. We are deeply saddened that two innocent people have been murdered and several others wounded. We pray for the victims and their families.
UJA Community Security has been and remains in continual communication with our national security partners (through CIJA’s NCSP), global Jewish security colleagues, and local law enforcement. At no time has there been any information to suggest a specific threat against the GTA Jewish community.
We thank Toronto Police Service and York Regional Police for their steadfast support and increased presence around Jewish facilities over Yom Kippur, which UJA was pleased to help coordinate.
Additionally, we extend our gratitude and appreciation to the volunteers and professionals who give their time to secure Jewish institutions on a daily basis. Today’s terrible attack underscores the critical importance of robust security measures at Jewish institutions. Initial reports reveal that the synagogue that was targeted had strong measures in place and closely followed emergency protocols. Many lives were saved as a direct result.
We urge Jewish institutions to maintain a healthy sense of vigilance and adhere to security protocols. We also remind community members to say something if they see something. In an emergency, call 9-1-1. To contact police in a non-emergency situation, call 416-808-2222 (Toronto) or 1-866-876-5423 (York). For security questions or to report incidents (which helps community institutions coordinate effectively), please call the UJA Community Security Hotline at 416-635-5600.