As Shabbat ends in Toronto, we are following rapidly unfolding developments in the Middle East. 

Now and always, UJA stands with the people of Israel and the people in Iran who are victimized by the Iranian regime. 

This is a consequential and historic moment. The weakening of a tyrannical regime that has exported terror, repression, and instability across the region carries profound significance for Israel, the Jewish people, and all who seek peace and security. At the same time, we recognize the immense strain on Israelis who are enduring relentless missile barrages, rushing in and out of bomb shelters, and facing deep uncertainty each day. Our hearts are with them as they demonstrate extraordinary courage and resilience. We pray for the swift recovery of those injured and mourn the senseless loss of innocent life. 

At this pivotal moment for Israel and the Jewish people, we are here to support our community and are working closely with our partners on the ground here and in Israel. Here is what you need to know: 

Community Security:

The Jewish Security Network (JSN) is continually monitoring the threat environment in Greater Toronto. At this time, JSN has no information to indicate a specific threat to the Jewish community in the Greater Toronto Area. However, experience shows that developments in the Middle East have security implications for Jewish communities around the world. 

Out of an abundance of caution, JSN is:  

• In constant communication with law enforcement partners, national security intelligence, and Jewish community security partners across Canada and globally    

• Increasing monitoring through our 24/7 security operations centre  

• Co-ordinating enhanced law enforcement presence and patrols around key community areas

• Maintaining heightened situational awareness across our volunteer network  

JSN is encouraging our community to exercise healthy vigilance. If you see something, say something. Please report concerning activity to police without delay. Your second call should always be to JSN’s 24/7 hotline at 437-222-3999, so its team can co-ordinate with police and community institutions.  

If You Have Family and Friends Travelling in Israel:  

All Canadians visiting or residing in Israel should register immediately with the Government of Canada through the Registration of Canadians Abroad service. This allows Global Affairs Canada to: 

• Share important safety updates  

• Contact Canadians with emergency information  

Please encourage your loved ones to do so right away.

Emergency Consular Assistance:

For official information about emergency assistance, including what the Government of Canada can and cannot do, please check out their Emergency Watch and Response Centre webpage. 

If Canadians and permanent residents in Israel need emergency consular assistance, they should use this dedicated email for Canadians in the Middle East.  

Israel Travel Programs:   

While there are not currently any UJA-funded missions in Israel, there are Torontonians participating in several extended Israel experiences. These programs are strictly adhering to the safety and security guidelines determined by local authorities. 

For any upcoming trips, we will continue to monitor the situation and keep participants well informed. 

Our Partners in Israel:

UJA maintains deep, long-standing relationships with Israel’s leading humanitarian, social service, and community organizations. Our support of key national organizations through our Annual Campaign—including The Jewish Agency for Israel, the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, and other trusted organizations—ensures that communities across Israel have emergency preparedness, professional capacity, and rapid-response systems already in place, so that help can be mobilized immediately when a crisis breaks out. As the situation continues to evolve, we will activate and scale our support as required, so that Israelis receive timely assistance in areas such as emergency response, community resilience, mental health, and recovery. 

A Strong Community Voice:   

Our advocacy agency, the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), welcomes Canada’s support for military action against the Islamic regime and Israel’s right to defend its people. On Sunday, March 1 at 7:00 PM EST, CIJA, in partnership with Federations across the country, will host a webinar featuring Yaron Deckel. Yaron is considered one of the most respected and well-known journalists in Israel, as a reporter, editor, and show host. At this critical moment for Israel and the broader region, the webinar will be an informative discussion on the pre-emptive Israeli and American strikes on targets in Iran and the serious threats posed by the Islamic Regime—from its repression at home and support for terrorism abroad, to its missile and drone attacks and continued pursuit of nuclear capabilities. 

To register for the webinar, please click here: webinar registration page. 

Keeping you informed: 

We will continue to keep the community updated HERE as more information becomes available. 

Our community has faced difficult times before, and we have always met them with resolve, strength, and unity. Together, we will stand firmly with Israel and care for our local Jewish community. 

Am Yisrael Chai.