Canadian Jewish Organizations Call for Action After Belleville Synagogue Shooting

Canadian Jewish organizations are calling for stronger action against antisemitic violence following Sunday night's shooting outside the Sons of Jacob Synagogue in Belleville during Yom Kippur.

The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) and Jewish Federations of Canada-UIA issued a joint statement Tuesday expressing concern about the shooting and gratitude to Const. Jeff Smith, the police officer who was seriously injured while responding to the gunman. No congregants inside the synagogue were injured.

The organizations called on federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen efforts to address threats against Jewish institutions. Their recommendations include better coordination between intelligence and law-enforcement agencies, improved access to police protection for Jewish institutions, and stronger action against groups and individuals promoting violence.

The incident has also prompted increased police visibility around synagogues and other places of worship in the Toronto area. Toronto Police said they were increasing patrols as a precaution following the Belleville shooting.

Sources: The Canadian Jewish News, Times of Israel, Toronto CityNews.