People comforted one another near a flower memorial outside Bondi Pavilion at Sydney’s Bondi Beach on Monday, December 15, 2025, one day after the shooting. AP Photo
Canada’s intelligence agency says no immediate threat exists in Canada. The assessment followed a deadly shooting in Australia. The attack happened during a Hanukkah celebration. Officials continue to monitor risks closely.
The Canadian Security Intelligence Service released its findings Monday. The review came from the Integrated Threat Assessment Centre. The centre reviews threats facing the country.
“There is currently no observed reporting indicating an imminent, credible threat targeting the 2025 holiday season in Canada, including events associated with the Jewish community,” the brief says.
Caution Still Remains
Despite the reassurance, the agency urged caution. Officials warned violence could still happen. They stressed the risk of sudden attacks.
“However, we cannot discount a lone actor or small group using readily available weapons mobilizing to violence with little to no intelligence forewarning,” the brief says.
“A violent extremist attack in Canada, including one targeting the Jewish community, remains a realistic possibility.”
The agency said holiday gatherings remain attractive targets. This includes Hanukkah events and other celebrations.
No Specific Threat Detected
The intelligence review found no current plans targeting Canada. Officials said they found no evidence of organized threats.
“There is no current information indicating a specific threat targeting 2025 holiday events, including against Hanukkah celebrations, in Canada by threat actors or transnational violent extremist groups,” the brief says.
Some police services have increased patrols. Officers now maintain a stronger presence near Jewish sites.
Rising Safety Concerns in Canada
Jewish communities in Canada have faced growing violence. Incidents have increased in recent years. Synagogues in Vancouver and Montreal faced firebombings. Vandals damaged the National Holocaust Monument.
In Ottawa, a woman suffered a stabbing inside a grocery store. In Toronto, gunfire struck a Jewish girls’ school three times in 2024. Community leaders say fear remains high.
Details of the Australian Attack
The warning followed a deadly incident in Australia. At least 15 people died during a Hanukkah event. At least 38 others suffered injuries. The attack happened at Bondi Beach.
Police said a father and son carried out the shooting. Officers killed the father at the scene. The son remained in a coma Monday.
The violence followed another deadly attack. In October, a man attacked worshippers in Manchester. The incident occurred during Yom Kippur. Two people died and several suffered injuries.
Extremist Links Under Review
The intelligence brief noted extremist links in Australia. Investigators found earlier concerns about one suspect.
The younger attacker faced investigation in 2019. Authorities reviewed his alleged extremist ties.
“The attackers had also reportedly pledged allegiance to DAESH,” CSIS writes.
Officials also saw online praise for the violence.
“Violent rhetoric supporting or celebrating the attack has already been noted online,” the brief says.
Community Leaders Call for Action
Jewish leaders urged stronger protection. Noah Shack spoke Sunday about rising threats. He warned Canada faces real danger.
Canada is not immune to deadly violence, he said. He urged governments to act faster.
Political leaders offered support. Prime Minister Mark Carney released a statement Sunday. He said Canadians stand with Jewish communities worldwide. Provincial leaders echoed those words.
The federal government continues debating Bill C-9. The bill would add new hate crime protections. Carney said the law protects everyone. He noted the bill followed concerns raised by Jewish Canadians.
