Man Attempts to Steal Hasidic Shtreimel in Montreal Amid Rising Antisemitic Incidents

On a Saturday night around 9:45 PM in Montreal, a man was caught on video repeatedly trying to snatch a shtreimel, a traditional fur hat, from the head of a Hasidic man outside a synagogue. The footage shows the suspect exiting a black vehicle and stealthily approaching the Hasid from behind. Despite several attempts, the Hasid managed to evade the thief until other Hasidim ran toward the assailant, causing him to flee. Later, the man was seen passing near a group of frightened Hasidim.

Local Jewish community members reported that after multiple failed attempts, the individual succeeded in stealing two shtreimels before escaping. The video has raised concern within the community, prompting calls for anyone with information to contact authorities. This incident follows a recent antisemitic attack in Toronto, where a man wearing a kippah was severely assaulted by an individual identified as a Yemeni Houthi, who was subsequently arrested by police.

The Montreal incident highlights ongoing antisemitic violence in Canada, with community leaders urging vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement to prevent further attacks.