Riots Erupt in Montreal During NATO Protest

A convergence of anti-NATO and pro-Palestinian protests in Montreal escalated into riots on November 22, resulting in three arrests for violence and vandalism. Demonstrators vandalized businesses, smashed windows, and set vehicles ablaze, including an effigy of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, leading to clashes with police who used pepper spray to disperse the crowd. The protests were part of a larger wave of demonstrations across Quebec, coinciding with student strikes that included disturbing displays of antisemitism. Political leaders, including Defence Minister Bill Blair and Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly, condemned the violence, asserting that such actions are unacceptable and detrimental to free speech. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faced criticism for his absence during the unrest, as he attended a concert instead of addressing the escalating situation. The protests and resulting violence highlight the rising tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the impact of political rhetoric in Canada.