A pro-Palestinian demonstration in Toronto led to the arrest of eight individuals who forcibly entered a Member of Parliament’s office and refused to leave. The incident took place at Liberal MP Karim Bardeesy’s office in the High Park area, where approximately 30 to 40 protesters gathered, demanding action against Israel in response to the conflict in Gaza.
According to authorities, the demonstration escalated when a staff member made a distress call to the police after being cornered in a room. Police intervened, ensuring the safety of the staff member and instructing all individuals to vacate the premises. However, eight protesters resisted, resulting in their arrest on charges including forcible entry, unlawful assembly, mischief, and obstructing police.
The arrested protesters are set to appear in court on November 25, 2025. Social media footage captured protesters wearing white-and-black Keffiyehs chanting “No justice, no peace!” as they called for sanctions on Israel and an arms embargo.
In response to the incident, a spokesperson for MP Bardeesy expressed concern over the disruption caused to the office’s operations and emphasized the importance of peaceful protest in a democracy. The spokesperson also mentioned MP Bardeesy’s efforts to address the detainment of six Canadians in a flotilla aiming to deliver aid to Gaza, including raising concerns with Global Affairs Canada and providing support to the affected family.