Montreal's McGill University has suffered another incident of anti-Israel violence.
The crime took place on Thursday when vandals smashed windows and scrawled "Free Palestine" graffiti across the Roddick Gates at McGill's main campus entrance.
The vandalism was condemned by university President Deep Saini, who described the perpetrators as a "shouting mob" intent on intimidation. No arrests were made immediately, but Montreal police are investigating, waiting on security camera footage for leads.
In 2024, McGill experienced a series of events marred by destruction and violence linked to pro-Palestinian activism. In July, a pro-Palestinian encampment was dismantled after nearly three months of occupation, following accusations of harassment, antisemitic intimidation, and property damage.
The camp, described by university officials as "a heavily fortified focal point for intimidation and violence," was linked to incidents like the occupation of the James Administration Building, clashes with police, and an alleged assault on a security guard.
McGill is a hotspot for the activities since the Israel-Hamas conflict intensified, with frequent protests and the university's infrastructure often targeted.
On October 7, 2024, marking the first anniversary of significant Hamas attacks on Israel, there was reported violence including window smashing and chaos at the university, with some activists chanting "Death to Canada."
Jewish students and community leaders have expressed concern over safety, with reports of antisemitic graffiti, intimidation, and even physical assaults on campus.
A law student at McGill, Nicole Nashen, testified before a parliamentary committee, decrying the university's failure to protect Jewish students from hate incidents.
The university administration has repeatedly condemned the acts and has worked with law enforcement.
