Conservative MP Condemns Anti-Israel Protest in Toronto Neighborhood

A recent protest in Toronto’s Jewish neighborhood has drawn condemnation from local political leaders, highlighting tensions surrounding ongoing demonstrations related to the Israel-Palestine conflict. On November 16, 2025, Conservative Member of Parliament Melissa Lantsman expressed her outrage over the protest, which she characterized as an act of intimidation against the Jewish community.

The protest occurred near the intersection of Bathurst Street and Sheppard Avenue, a residential area home to many Jewish families. Lantsman pointed out that the Consulate General of Israel is located approximately 30 minutes away at Yonge and Bloor Streets, questioning the rationale behind conducting the protest in this particular neighborhood. In a post on X, she stated, “The only reason to show up in this neighbourhood mostly masked up is to intimidate Jews where they live.”

Toronto police were present during the event, with officers monitoring the situation on bicycles and in patrol cars. Despite the visible police presence, no arrests were made. The Toronto Police Service issued a statement asserting that “individuals have a Charter-protected right to peaceful assembly and to express their views in public spaces, as long as they remain lawful.”

Lantsman’s comments reflect a broader concern regarding the frequency and nature of protests targeting Jewish communities in Canada. She criticized the lack of action from law enforcement and political leaders, stating, “Once again, Toronto Police are allowing it and politicians are silent when agitators march through a Jewish community, parading in front of a synagogue founded by Holocaust survivors to protest a foreign conflict.”

Protesters were seen carrying Palestinian flags and some wore masks that obscured their faces. A video recorded by independent journalist Caryma Sa’d captured the scene, which included shouts from bystanders expressing their disapproval. One individual in a vehicle was heard saying, “Get out of my neighbourhood,” while another woman yelled “Shame!” as the demonstrators passed by.

According to the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), protests have been ongoing since last year, with increasing instances of extremist rhetoric and intimidation reported. Josh Landau, the organization’s director of government relations in Ontario, remarked, “This is not about events overseas. This is about violent extremism taking root here in Canada,” emphasizing the need for a response to the escalation of such protests.

Former MP Kevin Vuong also condemned the protests, drawing a parallel to historical instances of racial intimidation. He posed a rhetorical question on X, asking if society would permit similar displays of hatred, such as members of the Ku Klux Klan marching through predominantly Black neighborhoods. “End this double standard,” he urged.

The Toronto police reiterated their commitment to upholding the right to free speech and assembly while ensuring public safety. Their statement emphasized that while peaceful demonstrations are protected, any criminal behavior would not be tolerated.

As tensions continue to rise, community leaders and advocates are calling for a more robust response to protect the safety and rights of all residents in Toronto. The protest on November 16 is a reflection of the ongoing challenges facing the Jewish community in Canada, as well as the complexities surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict.