Trudeau, political leaders denounce ‘violence and hatred’ at anti-NATO demonstration in Montreal
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, along with federal cabinet ministers and other politicians, has strongly condemned the violent anti-NATO demonstration that took place in Montreal on Friday night. The protesters’ actions were described as “appalling” by Trudeau, who took to social media to denounce the events that unfolded. Montreal police reported that at least three individuals were arrested during the protests, which included pro-Palestinian and anti-NATO demonstrators engaging in acts of violence such as throwing objects at police, setting vehicles on fire, and breaking windows.
Trudeau emphasized that acts of antisemitism, intimidation, and violence must be condemned wherever they occur. He stated that the RCMP is in communication with local police and stressed the importance of holding rioters accountable for their actions. Despite the chaos that ensued during the demonstration, Montreal police indicated that they had not received any reports of antisemitic acts or hate crimes related to the protest.
The protest, organized by the Divest for Palestine collective and anti-capitalist group CLAC, aimed to denounce NATO’s involvement in various conflicts in the Middle East, particularly in relation to Israel’s actions in Gaza and other regions. However, the demonstration turned violent, leading to injuries among protesters and clashes with law enforcement.
Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly and Defence Minister Bill Blair condemned the protesters’ actions, describing them as unacceptable and characterized by violence, hatred, and antisemitism. However, spokesperson Benoît Allard from the Divest for Palestine collective rejected accusations of antisemitism, asserting that the protest was directed at the actions of the Israeli state rather than the Jewish people.
The demonstration, which began peacefully in Place Émilie-Gamelin before escalating into violence near St-Urbain Street, resulted in arrests for assaulting police officers and obstructing police work. Protesters engaged in destructive behavior, including setting vehicles on fire and damaging business windows. The chaotic events prompted Quebec Premier François Legault and Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante to condemn the violence and express solidarity with the affected communities.
As the investigation into the protest continues, authorities are working to identify and apprehend additional individuals involved in the disturbances. The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the right to peaceful protest and the need to prevent such demonstrations from escalating into violence. It serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding public safety and ensuring that protests remain peaceful and respectful of others.
