Prime Minister Mark Carney declared Canada faces a 'crisis of antisemitism' during a speech at Toronto's Holy Blossom Temple, marking a stark warning from the newly elected leader. Carney stated antisemitism has surged to levels not witnessed since World War II, directly linking the phenomenon to a breakdown in Canada's civic compact for Jewish citizens.

The announcement follows mounting pressure from Jewish organizations after multiple synagogue shootings in Toronto and Vaughan this March. Two people now face charges in connection with those attacks, which advocacy groups called a 'dangerous escalation.' A government report found over two-thirds of religion-motivated hate crimes target Jewish Canadians, despite comprising just 1% of the population.

Carney's response includes a new ministerial advisory council and builds on previous commitments. In September 2024, Canada allocated 274 million Canadian dollars over six years to combat hate, funding police data collection and community programs. The government also introduced hate crime legislation creating new offenses for intimidation at religious institutions.

Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre demanded Carney apologize for 'the violence, terror and fear' his party allowed over the past decade. Israeli President Isaac Herzog expressed 'deep alarm' during a recent call with Carney, highlighting attacks on synagogues, schools, and businesses. Critics argue the new hate crime legislation's broad language threatens civil liberties.