Toronto police vow zero tolerance for hate speech in rallies after Israel attack

Police are preparing for large demonstrations in Toronto in the wake of the bloody attack on Israel launched by Hamas over the weekend and the war that followed.

Officials in Toronto are bracing for large, competing demonstrations through Monday as pro-Palestinian and Israeli groups organize rallies after days of bloodshed in the Middle East.

Road closures are planned throughout the city and downtown, where people will see an increased police presence.

A rally in support of the people of Israel is planned for Mel Lastman Square on Monday. An event in support of Palestinians is set for Nathan Phillips Square.

The demonstrations come after an unprecedented attack by Hamas against Israel from the Gaza Strip on Saturday. The group, which the Canadian government has designated a terrorist organization, has controlled the territory since 2007.

Around 800 people, including 73 soldiers, have been killed in Israel, and 493 people have been killed in Gaza, according to authorities on each side.

In response, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared war and promised swift and comprehensive retaliation, including air strikes across Gaza. The country said a “complete siege” of the area had begun, including cutting electricity, food and fuel supplies.

Toronto police Deputy Chief Lauren Pouge told reporters officers have been instructed to protect people’s right to free speech while enforcing a zero-tolerance approach to violence, harassment or hate speech.

“We have heard the public’s concern about the potential for hate speech and messages at these demonstrations, as well as concerns about possible confrontation between participants and those who are opposed to the events,” she said.