A stark contrast unfolded in Canada this week, highlighting a deep divide in leadership and public sentiment. While violent protests erupted in Montreal, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau attended a Taylor Swift concert in Toronto, drawing ire for his apparent detachment from the turmoil.
The protests in Montreal began as demonstrations against a NATO summit held in the city, where international delegates discussed the organization’s strategic goals.
However, the gathering quickly spiraled into chaos, with pro-Palestinian protesters unleashing violence and destruction.
According to reports, demonstrators set cars ablaze, shattered store windows, and hurled small explosive devices at police officers.
Terrorism on our streets and Trudeau doesn't care.
— Canada Proud (@WeAreCanProud) November 23, 2024
Pro-Hamas riots are taking place in Montreal, meanwhile Trudeau is at a Taylor Swift concert displaying his cringe dance moves. pic.twitter.com/0wpXUgRNFa
An effigy of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was burned in the street as protesters carried Palestinian flags and banners, releasing red smoke bombs to create an atmosphere of anarchy.
Montreal police struggled to maintain order, employing crowd-control measures to disperse the rioters. Authorities confirmed three arrests for assaults on police officers and obstruction of justice.
Footage of the mayhem circulated widely on social media, amplifying criticism of the government’s response.
One clip in particular drew widespread condemnation: Trudeau dancing at the Taylor Swift concert while his hometown faced violence.
Montreal is being destroyed because of a conflict that's happening in the middle of a desert on the other side of the globe
— The Pleb 🌍 Reporter (@truckdriverpleb) November 23, 2024
This is insane and I'm beyond fed up of seeing these conflicts play out in our streets
I want my country backpic.twitter.com/zb8rFoN1cR
Critics, including political leaders, expressed outrage over Trudeau’s perceived indifference. Member of Parliament Melissa Lantsman tweeted, “Complete lawlessness in Montreal as the Pro-Hamas terror mobs emboldened by the Trudeau Liberals destroy the PM’s own hometown. Rioters on a violent rampage and not a single word from our government.”
Quebec Senator Leo Housakos also weighed in, writing, “Tonight, while Justin Trudeau is partying it up in Toronto, I was meeting with several members of the Jewish community of Montreal. Meanwhile, this is our hometown tonight. The pro-Hamas crowd emboldened by Mr. Trudeau’s pledge to arrest the Israeli PM. Hope you had fun at the concert, though, Justin.”
Observers noted that the protests reflected growing tensions within Canada over global conflicts. A video shared by The Pleb Reporter captured the frustration, stating, “Montreal is being destroyed because of a conflict happening in the middle of a desert on the other side of the globe. This is insane, and I’m beyond fed up of seeing these conflicts play out in our streets.”
While many protesters voiced their support for Palestinian causes, some actions escalated into hate speech and violent symbolism.
Chants calling for Israel’s destruction and acts such as stomping on Israeli flags and giving Hitler salutes drew condemnation.
Critics linked this unrest to Trudeau’s earlier statements about potential international actions, accusing him of emboldening divisive elements.
The unrest in Montreal underscores a broader challenge for Canada: balancing its domestic policies with global conflicts that ignite tensions at home.
Critics argue that Trudeau’s actions during the crisis—attending a concert amid violence—further alienate citizens concerned about public safety and governmental priorities.
As Montreal recovers from the riots, calls for stronger leadership and a focus on law and order continue to mount. Whether Trudeau can regain public trust remains uncertain.