'Violent rhetoric from extremist actors' increased since Oct. 7 attack, CSIS says

The Israel-Hamas war has led to a spike in «violent rhetoric» from «extremist actors» that could prompt some in Canada to turn to violence, the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) warns.

The statement comes as newly released documents illustrate discussions last fall between the spy agency, the federal Public Safety Department and Muslim and Jewish leaders about responding to a reported uptick in hate crimes spurred by the conflict.

«While the long-term impacts of the current crisis cannot be easily predicted, it is clear that this conflict has raised tensions within our society,» wrote spokesman Eric Balsam.

«Violent rhetoric from extremist actors has increased since the attack by Hamas and, as the conflict continues to unfold, it is possible that these events could impact certain individuals' intent to mobilize to violence.»

The agency's role is to monitor and identify any threats and alert the government. That doesn't include lawful protests and dissent, which are protected by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, Balsam added.

Documents released to The Canadian Press under the Access to Information Act detail summaries of discussions federal officials had separately with Jewish and Muslim leaders about the ongoing domestic turmoil.

One such document says CSIS representatives «assured all participants that they will continue to monitor threats and to look for evidence of attacks being planned.»

The agency remains in talks with leaders from Muslim and Jewish communities to hear their concerns, Balsam said. Director David Vigneault met with the federal envoy to combat antisemitism and Islamophobia last fall, he added.

Over the course of their meetings, federal officials heard concerns from Muslim and Arab leaders about