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Anti-Israel demonstrators forced their way into a private Toronto venue on Wednesday, injuring a veteran of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) who came to speak with students.
The attack occurred during a program run by the Students Supporting Israel (SSI) chapter at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU).
Organizers had moved the “Combat on College” event to a nearby private business after TMU denied them a room on campus. According to SSI, masked activists used a drill bit to break a glass door while one of the veterans tried to hold it shut. The door shattered, cutting his arm and bringing the event to an abrupt end.
Toronto Police arrested several suspects and confirmed one injury. The investigation remains active, and officers continue reviewing evidence from the scene.
SJP Rally Preceded the Violence
Earlier that day, Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) TMU urged supporters to block the event. The group announced an “emergency rally” to stop what it called “Zionist murderers.” Its post accused the university of inaction and declared that “war criminals will never be welcome in our communities.”
“This is not in Gaza or Europe. This is happening in North America,” said SSI Founder Ilan Sinelnikov. “To say Jewish students, Zionist students are not at risk would be a lie.”
He called the attack “the textbook definition of terrorism.” Moreover, he said universities and local leaders have ignored the growing danger for too long. “The terrorists in Toronto must be arrested and held accountable to the full extent of the law,” Sinelnikov added.
Rising Threats to Jewish Students
The lecture was part of an Ontario college tour that gives students the chance to hear firsthand from IDF veterans. Speakers shared what life has been like in Israel since the October 7th Hamas massacre. SSI said the program aimed to promote open dialogue and understanding.
However, the violent disruption sent the opposite message. As a result, Jewish and pro-Israel students increasingly fear expressing their views. SSI warned that unless authorities take stronger action, such intimidation will continue.
So far, TMU has not released a public statement or responded to media inquiries about the attack.
