A private event in Toronto, organized by the TMU chapter of Students Supporting Israel, was shattered Wednesday afternoon when a group forcefully entered the building, unleashing chaos and fear.
The event, featuring Israeli Defence Forces reservists sharing their experiences from the October 7th attacks, had been moved off-campus due to prior security concerns. Despite this precaution, protesters stormed the location at Bay and Elm Street, leaving a scene described as one of “broken glass and blood.”
Students Supporting Israel reported being specifically targeted for their Jewish identity and for hosting the Israeli soldiers. The group expressed profound shock and outrage, stating that no one should endure such blatant hatred.
Evidence suggests the disruption was not spontaneous. Friends of the Simon Wiesenthal Centre highlighted a social media post circulated by Students for Justice in Palestine at TMU, actively urging people to protest the event.
Police responded to reports of the forced entry and alleged damage to property. Attendees reported feeling genuinely afraid for their safety, and one person suffered injuries from shattered glass during the intrusion.
Five individuals now face charges, including forcible entry, obstructing a peace officer, and, in one case, assault of a police officer. The arrests occurred in the vicinity of the event after police were called to remove the protesters.
The Friends of the Simon Wiesenthal Centre condemned the incident as a “violent antisemitic assault” and warned of a growing climate of intimidation facing Jewish students on Canadian campuses. They demanded more than just expressions of concern, calling for concrete action.
Toronto Metropolitan University released a statement expressing deep concern and condemning all acts of aggression and violence. The university confirmed its full cooperation with the police investigation and announced a review of its existing policies.
B’nai Brith Canada characterized the event as a targeted act of hate intended to intimidate and silence. They placed responsibility on TMU’s administration for the actions of Students for Justice in Palestine, demanding a suspension and review of the group’s recognized status.
Councillor James Pasternak denounced the attack as a “disgraceful assault” on public order and shared civic values, firmly stating that political disagreement can never justify physical harm. He emphasized the fundamental principle that violence has no place in the pursuit of justice.
