As the Israel-Hamas conflict intensifies, countries around the world are taking sides, leading to protests against Israel.
In a significant turn of events, several nations in Africa and South America have chosen to recall their Ambassadors in response to the escalating hostilities.
In Montreal, Canada, a Jewish school, Yeshiva Gedola of Montreal, faced gunfire, marking the third attack in less than a week amidst heightened tensions over the Gaza conflict. Fortunately, no injuries were reported when the school’s facade was struck early on Sunday. Bullet marks and shells were discovered after residents heard gunfire.
The incident follows overnight shootings at two other Jewish schools in the Côte-des-Neiges neighbourhood, where staff reported finding bullet holes in the front doors. It remains unclear if these incidents are related.
In a separate development at Concordia University in Montreal, a violent altercation occurred between individuals aligned with opposing sides of the Gaza conflict, resulting in injuries and an arrest.
The university, like others, has experienced a concerning rise in acts of intimidation and intolerant behaviour, causing fear among students.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the violence, acknowledging the high emotions surrounding the conflict.
He emphasised that attacking each other does not reflect Canadian values. Trudeau called for building understandings and peaceful resolutions, stating that Canada can play a pivotal role in fostering such dialogues.
The Israel-Gaza war has deeply divided Canada, with an increasing number of people urging a ceasefire.
In Toronto, hate crimes against Jews and Muslims more than doubled in the three weeks following the initial Hamas attack on October 7, compared to the entire number in 2022.
As the international community grapples with the complexities of the Israel-Hamas conflict, these incidents reflect the far-reaching impact of the hostilities, prompting diplomatic measures and raising concerns about rising intolerance and violence in various parts of the world.