Members of Montreal’s Jewish community gathered downtown to celebrate Israel Independence Day, while an opposing crowd set up across the street. As with years past, Place du Canada was filled with blue and white flags for most of the day, while pro-Palestinian supporters gathered in protest on the other side of René-Lévesque Boulevard, amid a heavy police presence. “It is not religious and not political. It is just a celebration of the fact that Israel exists,” said Anka Zhelkovsky, celebrating the country’s founding 78 years ago. Many who were downtown on Wednesday said they did not want to get political, but Israel is a participant in conflicts in the Middle East. “I don’t celebrate the loss of life, but I celebrate what Israel’s doing to protect their people,” said Ronald Korzinstone. David Igle travelled from New Jersey to take part in the celebration. “You can still celebrate all the good that it stands for,” he said. “The democracy, the freedom for people, so while you don’t necessarily have to agree, I think it is great to stand for their values and for defending their people.” Pro-Palestinian supporters held a different view. “It is outrageous,” said Tatiana Posada. “I don’t understand how somebody in Canada, or in any part of the world in 2026, can still support the so-called Israel state.” Members of Jews United Against Zionism were present. Rabbi Yisroel Dovid Weiss said he is opposed to the Jewish state. “It’s nothing to do with the will of the almighty,” he said. “We are forbidden to kill or steal, occupy.” Wednesday’s groups remained peaceful, and there were no reports of violence.
