An estimated 60,000 people participated in Toronto’s annual Walk with Israel on Sunday, as police maintained a significant security presence and made six arrests before, during, and after the event.
Organized by the United Jewish Appeal (UJA) Federation of Greater Toronto, the walk served as a show of solidarity with Israel and the Jewish community amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East and rising concerns over antisemitism. The 3.9-kilometre march began at Temple Sinai Congregation of Toronto and concluded at UJA’s Sherman Campus, where participants gathered for a community festival.
Adam Minsky, President and CEO of UJA Federation of Greater Toronto, described the event as a celebration of resilience and unity for a community that has faced significant challenges over the past year.
Toronto Police deployed extensive security measures along the route, including uniformed officers, undercover personnel, mounted units, drones, road closures, and protective barriers. Police reported six arrests related to offences including obstruction of a peace officer, assault, breaching the peace, and unauthorized drone operation.
Counter-protesters also gathered near the march route to voice opposition to Israeli military actions in Gaza and Lebanon. Demonstrators and participants exchanged verbal insults at times but remained separated by police officers and barricades. Toronto Police said officers worked to facilitate lawful demonstrations while ensuring public safety and preventing confrontations between groups.
Police Chief Myron Demkiw described the security operation as “very significant,” noting that both visible and non-visible measures were implemented to ensure the event proceeded safely. Additional support was provided by officers from York, Durham, Peel Region police services and the Ontario Provincial Police.
The annual walk, now in its 57th year, took place against the backdrop of increased antisemitic incidents in Toronto following the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel and the subsequent war in Gaza.
