WATCH: Reaction to the Jewish Defence League’s intention to come to Montreal
MONTREAL — The Jewish Defence League is considered by many to be an international right wing organization — a group that is ready to tackle the issue of radical Islam.
“Tackle” being the key word, as in the past, the organization has promoted the use of force to get its point across.
Classified as a terrorist group by the FBI, the Jewish Defence League exists in Canada. There is an office in Toronto and now a second chapter is being opened in Montreal.
More than 100 people attended a meeting Monday night to discuss the organization’s future in the city.
JDL Canada president Meir Weinstein told Global News the organization plans to “keep an eye” on radical Muslims in Montreal, and will share its information with authorities.
“We’re not vigilantes, we’re not looking to attack anyone.”
“We’re looking to zero in on radical Islam,”said Weinstein. “That’s it.”
However, Muslim and Jewish rights groups are saying the Jewish Defence League is not needed in the city.
“They will poison the atmosphere, they will disturb the peace.”
“We’re calling on the police to follow up on this group,” said Salam Elmenyawi from the Muslim Council of Montreal.
Steven Slimovitch from the B’Nai Brith group echoes those thoughts.
“We have a problem with any organization that advocates the use of violence,” said Slimovitch.
“We’ve read in the communique that violence appears to be a tool of use.”
On Monday night, Montreal mayor Denis Coderre also tweeted his opposition.
The tweet read: “Message to JDL – you are not welcome in Montreal. The Jewish community doesn’t need the Jewish Defence League.”
Eta Yudin from the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs said Montreal police are doing a good job dealing with anti-Semitic threats.
“Security for the Jewish community is coordinated through the Federation CJA in cooperation with Police,” said Yudin.
“All is well.”
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