A significant pro-Palestinian protest occurred outside Concordia University’s Henry F. Hall building in downtown Montreal. The event was anticipated, prompting the university to suspend operations for the day. As the clock struck 1 p.m., many attendees, some adorned in keffiyehs, gathered at the intersection of Mackay Street and de Maisonneuve Boulevard.
Police Presence at Concordia University
Numerous police officers were deployed in close proximity to the demonstration. Estimates suggest that there were several dozen law enforcement officials present. The university’s decision to close its downtown campus was taken to mitigate the risks associated with potentially disruptive protests.
University’s Precautionary Measures
Graham Carr, the president and vice-chancellor of Concordia University, communicated to students via email that faculty members might opt for remote delivery of classes unless pre-scheduled. He indicated that the closure decision aimed to safeguard the university community.
Over the past two years, the campus had experienced protests but had never been forced to shut down for preventive reasons before. The day marked the second anniversary of Hamas’s attack on southern Israel, which resulted in significant casualties and hostages.
Background of the Conflict
The Hamas assault two years ago reportedly claimed the lives of 1,200 individuals and resulted in around 250 hostages taken to Gaza. As of recent reports, Israeli officials assert that approximately 48 hostages remain in captivity, with 20 believed to still be alive. The ongoing conflict has led to increased casualties, with Gaza’s Health Ministry reporting over 67,000 fatalities due to Israel’s military campaign.
International Responses and Accusations
The repercussions of Israel’s military actions have spurred the International Criminal Court to issue arrest warrants for top officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Accusations of genocide have also surfaced, backed by a United Nations Commission of Inquiry, which Israel has strongly refuted.
Planned Demonstrations
- Protest Time: 1 p.m. at Concordia’s Hall building.
- Second Protest: Scheduled later near Square-Victoria–OACI Metro station.
On the previous day, another demonstration took place, resulting in two arrests. Both individuals were not affiliated with the university. Montreal police anticipated the presence of “hundreds” of protesters along with “counter-protesters” outside Concordia’s campus on Tuesday afternoon. Carr stated that the potential for extreme disruption justified the decision to close the campus.
This situation remains fluid and will be updated as new information arises.
