In response to the one-year anniversary of the Oct. 7 Hamas-led attack on Israel, police forces in major Canadian cities are significantly increasing their presence and security measures. The attack, which resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 Israelis and the capture of around 240 hostages, led to a prolonged Israeli military counteroffensive in Gaza. According to the regional health ministry, the retaliation has since resulted in over 41,000 deaths. As both pro-Israeli and pro-Palestinian demonstrations are expected across the country, law enforcement agencies are taking extensive precautions to ensure public safety, prevent hate crimes, and reduce tensions.
Ottawa’s Preparedness
In Ottawa, the nation’s capital, the police service has increased patrols around Jewish and Islamic places of worship, as well as community centers, in anticipation of potential unrest. Law enforcement is also carefully monitoring local developments and maintaining communication with religious communities. This comes after Jewish community members gathered at Parliament Hill on Sunday to honor the victims of the Oct. 7 attacks and call for the release of hostages held by Hamas. Meanwhile, pro-Palestinian demonstrators have been actively protesting Israel’s military actions in the Middle East, with recent demonstrations calling for a ceasefire.
The Ottawa Police Service has reiterated its commitment to public safety, stating, “We recognize that next week, October 7th, marks the beginning of hostilities. We are closely monitoring the situation and assessing any potential impacts on our local community.”
Increased Security in Montreal
In Montreal, Deputy Chief Vincent Richer confirmed that the city’s police force will focus much of its attention on protecting places of worship. Police are working closely with both Jewish and Arab-Muslim communities to ensure safety and minimize conflict. McGill University has restricted access to its campuses between Saturday and Monday as a preventive measure. Tensions on university campuses have been high, with students across North America protesting their institutions’ ties to Israel.
On Monday, Montreal is expected to see parallel events, with Jewish groups planning a vigil outside McGill University, while pro-Palestinian groups will march from Concordia University to McGill’s Roddick Gates. Police have been vigilant, with Richer emphasizing the importance of maintaining public safety. Over the past year, Montreal has experienced more than 340 protests related to the Israel-Hamas conflict, resulting in over 100 arrests and several hate crime charges.
Richer assured the public, “We want to make sure that people feel safe in Montreal,” as police continue to maintain a visible presence and work to prevent further unrest.
Toronto Ramps Up Protection in Jewish and Muslim Communities
Toronto, Canada’s largest city, is preparing for a significant police presence throughout Monday, particularly in neighborhoods with large Jewish and Muslim populations. Chief Myron Demkiw announced the deployment of three mobile command units along Bathurst Street, a prominent Jewish community hub, with a fourth unit stationed near various mosques.
Recognizing the potential for heightened tensions on the Oct. 7 anniversary, Chief Demkiw emphasized the importance of police visibility. “As tensions rise around the world and we approach the one-year anniversary of Oct. 7, we know world events always have an impact here at home. This includes the potential for increased protest activity and acts of violence.”
The Toronto Police Service has seen a marked increase in hate-motivated offences this year, with over 350 incidents reported—a 40% rise compared to the same period in 2023. The increased police presence aims to reassure the public and deter any hate-related violence during the upcoming demonstrations.
York Regional Police, which oversees Toronto’s northern suburbs, has also stepped up security measures. A mobile unit will patrol the region, while a stationary unit will be deployed in Thornhill, home to a sizable Jewish community. Vaughan Mayor Steven Del Duca expressed his support for the heightened security, noting that it would help ease the anxiety felt by the local Jewish population, particularly in light of recent global events.
Calgary’s Efforts to Maintain Calm
In Calgary, while no specific threats have been identified against the city’s Jewish or Muslim communities, the police department has increased its presence in key areas as a precautionary measure. Police have been coordinating with community leaders and are closely monitoring developments at the local, national, and international levels.
Calgary’s Jewish community held a rally at City Hall on Sunday to commemorate those lost in the Oct. 7 attacks, waving Israeli flags and reciting the Kaddish, a traditional Jewish prayer for the deceased. On the opposite side of the street, pro-Palestinian demonstrators called for an immediate ceasefire, reflecting the deep division in public opinion.
Calgary police have assured the public that they will continue to collaborate with community partners to ensure everyone’s safety during these emotionally charged events. “As we near the one-year mark since the events of Oct. 7, tensions in the Middle East remain high, and the effects are still being felt here in Calgary,” the police department said in a statement.
Vancouver’s Proactive Approach
In Vancouver, the police department is taking a proactive approach by deploying additional resources in anticipation of multiple protests scheduled for the anniversary. Chief Adam Palmer assured residents that there would be a “significant and visible police presence” across the city, with additional officers working discreetly to assess and respond to potential risks.
Palmer highlighted the violence, hostility, and assaults on both police officers and civilians that have occurred during past demonstrations in the city. As a preventive measure, additional cameras have been installed at Jewish places of worship, and a mobile command unit has been stationed at the Jewish Community Centre in Vancouver. These steps are part of the city’s broader strategy to maintain peace and safety during the sensitive period surrounding the Oct. 7 anniversary.
National Context and Outlook
The past year has seen thousands of protests and rallies in Canada related to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Pro-Israel demonstrators have called for the release of hostages and the continuation of Israeli military efforts, while pro-Palestinian groups have urged for an immediate ceasefire and greater attention to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
As tensions rise globally, Canadian cities are bracing for potential unrest. Local authorities are focused on ensuring that demonstrations remain peaceful and that any hate crimes or violence are swiftly addressed. The increased police presence, particularly around Jewish and Muslim communities, reflects the deep concern for public safety and the ongoing challenges posed by the complex geopolitical conflict.
With police forces across the country closely coordinating with community leaders, religious organizations, and public safety officials, Canada aims to manage the delicate balance of free speech and public safety during this solemn anniversary.