Canadian Authorities Condemn Demonstrations Amid Israel-Hamas Conflict

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Calls for Peace Amid Diverse Perspectives on Ongoing Crisis

In response to a series of recent demonstrations across Canada, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, alongside other authorities, has strongly condemned those gatherings that are seen as glorifying violence in connection with the Israel-Hamas conflict.

In a statement posted on social media, Prime Minister Trudeau expressed his condemnation of the demonstrations that have unfolded in Canada, stating, “I strongly condemn the demonstrations that have taken place, and are taking place, across the country in support of Hamas’ attacks on Israel. The glorification of violence is never acceptable in Canada.”

Trudeau, who later joined a solidarity gathering for Israel, emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution amid the ongoing conflict. Political leaders representing diverse perspectives in Canada have shown their support for Israel.

When queried about whether a distinction is made between pro-Palestinian protesters and demonstrators supporting Hamas, the Prime Minister’s office opted not to comment.

Across Canada, there were competing demonstrations and rallies on Monday, reflecting a range of perspectives on the Israel-Hamas conflict. In Toronto, a demonstration organized by a group called the Palestinian Youth Movement drew around 1,000 participants. Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow decried these unsanctioned demonstrations in the city and highlighted the Canadian government’s designation of Hamas as a terrorist organization.

Toronto police Deputy Chief Lauren Pouge underlined the importance of free speech rights while expressing opposition to hate speech or any speech that glorifies violence.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and other Canadian authorities condemned demonstrations across Canada glorifying violence by supporting Palestinian Islamist group Hamas' attack on Israel https://t.co/AZDUkOIkoC

— Reuters (@Reuters) October 10, 2023

In a united voice, Canadian province Ontario’s premier, Doug Ford, condemned what he referred to as “hate rallies celebrating the kidnapping and slaughtering of innocent Israeli people by terrorists,” describing them as “reprehensible and disgusting.”

The conflict between Israel and Hamas escalated over the weekend with a surprise attack by Hamas, leading to the tragic loss of lives and hostages. As Israeli TV channels reported, the death toll from the attack has risen to 900, with thousands injured.

In retaliation, Israel conducted air strikes in Gaza, leading to significant casualties. Gaza’s Health Ministry reported at least 687 Palestinians killed and 3,726 wounded in Israeli air strikes on the blockaded enclave since the outbreak of hostilities.

At the Toronto protest, Mona Ayesh, a 46-year-old Palestinian-Canadian, condemned the Israeli occupation of the West Bank and highlighted the 16-year-long blockade in Gaza, initiated after Hamas seized control of the territory in 2007. Ayesh emphasized the need to end the Israeli occupation for a resolution to the ongoing violence.