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Israel and Palestinian rallies held in Toronto amidst conflict
Tensions continued on the homefront Monday, as thousands headed to the streets of Toronto for opposing rallies.
This afternoon, Toronto police say they were present while a Palestinian group launched an unsanctioned protest at Nathan Phillips Square. Meanwhile, local Israeli support is also ramping up, including a planned demonstration in Hamilton on Tuesday.
A local group, Palestinian Youth Movement, held the rally in response to the attacks on Israel by Hamas and ongoing retaliation efforts, resulting in a climbing death toll.
As a massive crowd weaved through the streets, Toronto police had officers on the scene.
Toronto police held a news conference prior, acknowledging that organizers were holding the demonstration without a city permit.
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Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow denounced the rally on Monday, saying Toronto police will update her and will investigate any potential acts of hate.
Beyond the Greater Toronto Area, Palestinian support grew in places like Montreal, the U.S., and Europe.
Here in Hamilton, Mayor Andrea Horwath says her heart goes out to both communities impacted by the conflict.
Also, McMaster University condemned a union representing teaching assistants that supported Palestinian resistance.
CEO of the Hamilton Jewish Federation, Gustavo Rymberg, says local synagogues and Jewish supporters will hold their own local rally Tuesday at an undisclosed location, hoping to send a message.
In addition to a rally in Hamilton, there is support for Israel continuing in our region on Monday afternoon. Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati says the Falls will illuminate the colors blue and white in honor of the lives lost and hope for peace in the Middle East.
