A surprise attack by Hamas militants on nearby Israeli towns early morning Saturday (Oct. 7) is being condemned by the Canadian government and Vancouver officials.
The unprecedented attack is being called the deadliest in the country in years with at least 250 people killed and 1,500 wounded after Hamas militants infiltrated Israel's heavily fortified border by air, land, and sea during a major Jewish holiday.
Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced in a televised address that the country is now at war with Hamas. The Israeli military has launched airstrikes in Gaza and, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry in Gaza, at least 198 people have been killed and at least 1,610 wounded in the territory.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the attack, saying "these acts of violence are completely unacceptable. We stand with Israel and fully support its right to defend itself."
Vancouver officials have also taken to social media to respond to the devastating news.
"We unequivocally condemn this act of terrorism by Hamas against Israeli civilians. Our hearts are with all those who have been impacted," wrote Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim in a post on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.
Premier David Eby also responded to the news in a post on X. "I unequivocally condemn the attacks from Hamas on the people of Israel. Thousands of rockets fired at civilians during a Jewish holiday. The people of British Columbia stand with Israelis and their right to live in peace and security."
The Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver also spoke out in solidarity with Israel.
As violence continues to escalate overseas, the Vancouver Police Department (VPD) shared that it will be increasing police patrol near places of worship and community centres.
VPD notes that there is currently no specific threat to public safety in Vancouver.
With files from The Associated Press and Canadian Press.
