A Muslim woman was assaulted in front of her 7-year-old child in Moncton, New Brunswick, in an incident that has renewed concerns over Islamophobia and hate crimes in Canada.

The National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) said the family was participating in a vehicle convoy when a group verbally harassed them with racist remarks, including "Go back to your country," before physically attacking the woman. Videos shared on social media showed the young child trying to protect his mother, while the woman's husband was not present at the scene.

NCCM calls for full investigation

The NCCM said the woman was left with facial swelling, a bloody nose and other injuries. The organization called for a thorough investigation into the incident, including the possibility that it constituted a hate crime.

It also urged Canadian authorities to take a clear stand against Islamophobia and demonstrate solidarity with the country's Muslim community.

Politicians condemn the attack

The assault drew condemnation from politicians and human rights advocates.

Liberal Member of Parliament Jenica Atwin described the incident as a "brutal attack," warning that hate crimes are on the rise in Canada and should not be met with silence.

According to Statistics Canada, police-reported hate crimes targeting Muslims increased by 94 percent in 2023, rising from 109 cases in 2022 to 211 cases. During the same period, religiously motivated hate crimes increased by 67 percent, while overall hate crimes rose by 32 percent.

Advocacy groups have warned that anti-Muslim rhetoric and attacks have continued to increase in recent years, urging stronger measures to combat Islamophobia and protect vulnerable communities. (ILKHA)