Photo: Sky News.
Montreal, Canada – Mass protests have broken out in Montreal, quickly escalating into violent riots. Demonstrators, many of whom were wearing masks, stormed the streets, smashed shop windows, set fire to cars and threw Molotov cocktails at police. The protests sparked outrage over NATO’s policy in the Middle East, particularly in the context of the opening of the 70th session of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly in Montreal. According to the Time Ukraine Israel portal, citing Israel’s Channel 9, the protests are likely to last until 25 November, when the NATO session ends.
The violent development of the protests
According to eyewitnesses, the most intense clashes occurred in the immediate vicinity of the buildings where the NATO Parliamentary Assembly is meeting. The protesters are opposed to NATO’s support for the conflict in the Middle East, in particular with regard to Israeli policy. The unrest became even more widespread when protesters began destroying city facilities and actively clashed with police.
Political symbols and provocative actions
In addition to Palestinian flags, the protesters also raised Russian symbols, which further complicates the understanding of the political motives of the actions. One of the most provocative moments was the burning of an effigy of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which became a symbol of their protest against Israeli policy.
Police response and support for the International Criminal Court
Montreal police used tear gas and rubber batons to disperse the riots. At the same time, the Canadian authorities expressed their support for the International Criminal Court, declaring their readiness to execute arrest warrants for high-ranking Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Netanyahu. This decision was another sign of growing political tensions within the country.
