FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 18, 2024
Montreal, QC — Rabbi Saul Emanuel, Executive Director of the Jewish Community Council of Montreal, has expressed grave concern and outrage following the second firebomb attack on a Jewish community centre and synagogue in Dollard-des-Ormeaux. The building, located on West Park Blvd., houses Congregation Beth Tikvah synagogue, the Hebrew Foundation School, and the West Island offices of Federation CJA, and was previously targeted in a similar attack in November 2023.
Montreal police responded to the latest incident around 3 a.m. Wednesday after receiving reports of a fire outside the building. A window was smashed, and minor smoke damage occurred. Police quickly extinguished the flames and recovered remnants of a crude firebomb. Witnesses reported seeing a suspect at the scene, and arson investigators are reviewing local surveillance footage. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
“This second attack on the same location is deeply disturbing and a stark reminder of the persistence of anti-Semitic hatred,” Rabbi Emanuel stated. “This is not an isolated incident—it is a repeated assault on a cornerstone of our community that serves as a hub for education, faith, and social services. Such acts of violence cannot be ignored or minimized.”
Rabbi Emanuel called on law enforcement to redouble efforts to apprehend those responsible and urged government officials to take stronger action in combating hate crimes. He also emphasized the need for enhanced security measures at Jewish institutions to ensure the safety of the community.
“These repeated attacks are meant to instill fear, but our community remains resolute. We will not be intimidated,” Rabbi Emanuel affirmed. “At the same time, this is a wake-up call for all Quebecers: we must unite against hatred in all its forms and work together to protect the values of respect and inclusion that define our society.”
The Jewish Community Council of Montreal will continue to work closely with law enforcement, community leaders, and government officials to address these repeated acts of violence and ensure the security of Jewish institutions across the region.