Jewish Security Network

JSN UPDATE March 3, 2026

Dear Community Leaders and Heads of Security,

Over the past two nights, several concerning incidents have occurred across Toronto.

Early Sunday morning, gunfire was directed at the gym of an Iranian activist who has been a prominent organizer of anti-regime protests. That same night, the YEDI building and Old Avenue Restaurant were also targeted. The owner of Old Avenue has likewise been outspoken against the Iranian regime.

Late last night, Temple Emanu-El sustained damage from gunfire. Media reports also referenced Kehillat Shaarei Torah; however, that report is inaccurate. The damage at that institution relates to a separate incident from several months ago involving vandalism with a hammer.

All of these incidents occurred late at night or in the early hours of the morning when buildings were empty. There were no injuries.

With the current escalation in military action involving Iran — and public threats of retaliation — we are mindful that overseas developments can increase tensions locally. History has shown that Iranian regime actors and their proxies have, at times, blurred the line between Israeli interests and diaspora Jewish communities.

In light of recent events and heightened rhetoric, we recommend the following precautionary measures:

Immediate Actions

• Brief staff, volunteers, and security personnel on the situation. Emphasize heightened vigilance for anything unusual or out of place, no matter how minor it may seem.

• Reinforce that all suspicious activity must be reported immediately to onsite security, 911, and JSN’s 24/7 Security Hotline: 437-222-3999.

• Non-emergency or non-time-sensitive information can also be submitted via JSN’s online reporting form.

• Maintain strict access control at all times. All entry points should remain closed, locked, and monitored.

• Minimize congregation outside facilities. Encourage attendees to enter and leave promptly.

Operational Reinforcements

• Reinforce and review emergency protocols with all relevant personnel to ensure roles and responsibilities are clearly understood.

• Deploy trained volunteers and staff during arrival and departure times to support security personnel as additional “eyes and ears,” and to assist with efficient movement into and out of your facility. Additional vigilance in vetting is warranted, particularly when visitors are wearing Purim costumes or masks.

• Consider employing security guards if not already in place or increasing coverage to ensure all entrances and high-traffic areas are monitored.

• Where possible, apply for paid duty police officers. While availability is limited, local police services have indicated increased patrol presence around community institutions. In areas with multiple institutions, patrols may rotate rather than be stationed at a single site.

• Confirm that CCTV systems are fully operational and recording. Check panic buttons, alarms, PA systems, and electronic locking mechanisms to ensure they are functioning properly.

JSN is actively engaging across the community and remains in close contact with law enforcement partners, who have assured us of increased patrols and monitoring.

At times like this, calm, disciplined vigilance is our most effective response. Strong access control, clear communication, visible security presence, and prompt reporting are critical layers of protection.

Thank you for your continued leadership and commitment to safeguarding your institutions and our broader community. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us with any questions or concerns.

If you witness suspicious activity, experience a concerning incident, or have a security question, please contact JSN’s 24/7 Security Hotline: 437-222-3999. In an emergency, always call 911 first.

Sincerely,

JSN Management

IMPORTANT NOTICE FROM THE JEWISH SECURITY NETWORK - February 28, 2026

Dear Community Leaders

We are aware of and closely monitoring the escalating situation in the Middle East following the commencement of military action involving the Islamic Republic of Iran. Experience has shown that developments of this nature can sometimes lead to increased tensions abroad, including protests and heightened antisemitic rhetoric within diaspora communities.

At this time, we have no information indicating any specific or credible threat to the Jewish community locally. However, out of an abundance of caution, we have requested increased law enforcement presence in and around key Jewish institutions and communal areas.

We encourage our community to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Institutions should take this opportunity to ensure that appropriate security measures are in place, including:

• Maintaining strict access control at all times — doors and entry points should remain closed, locked, and monitored 

• Ensuring staff, security personnel, and volunteer teams are properly briefed

• Reviewing emergency procedures and confirming that roles and responsibilities are clearly understood

• Reporting any suspicious or unusual activity without hesitation

Strong security is about preparedness, not fear. By remaining alert, disciplined, and coordinated, we help ensure our community continues to function confidently and proudly.

If you see something, say something — without delay. Trust your instincts and report concerns immediately:

• Notify on-site security, police officers, or community security volunteers

• Contact JSN’s 24/7 Security Operations Centre: 437-222-3999

• In an emergency, always call 911 first

• Any information that is non-emergency and not time sensitive can also be reported through our online reporting form

JSN will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as required.

Sincerely,

JSN Management