*check against delivery*

I want to take a few moments today to update the public on the Toronto Police Service’s preparations for Al-Quds Day scheduled to take place this Saturday, March 14.

As with any large-scale event in our city, the public will notice an increased police presence in and around the areas where activities are expected to occur.

Torontonians should also be aware that there may be temporary road closures or disruptions in parts of the downtown core while the event is underway, beginning at approximately noon on Saturday.

Our priority, as always, is to ensure the safety of everyone involved – including participants, counter-protesters, residents, visitors, and our officers.

Our Major Incident Command Centre will be activated to support this event, allowing us to monitor developments in real time and coordinate resources as needed.

We are also working closely with our municipal, provincial, and federal partners, as well as our intelligence partners, to monitor any potential risks and ensure we are prepared to respond if circumstances change.

During the event, our Police Liaison Team will be present to communicate with organizers and participants, help reduce tensions, and support a safe environment where people can express their views lawfully.

In Canada, people have the right to assemble and to express their opinions. Those rights are fundamental. At the same time, everyone must respect the law.

Toronto Police are present at these gatherings to maintain public order, facilitate crowd safety, and ensure that people can exercise their rights.

We also want to be clear that interfering with officers, obstructing police duties, or engaging in violence will not be tolerated. Anyone who engages in criminal behaviour can expect that the law will be enforced.

It also should be noted that there will be restricted airspace above and around the U.S. Consulate this weekend. This restriction applies to all drone operations, including micro drones.

We are asking everyone who plans to attend – whether they are participating in the event or protesting it – to do so lawfully and respectfully.

We also recognize that this year’s event is taking place during a period of heightened geopolitical tensions. Developments in the Middle East, including recent military actions involving Iran, have increased emotions and sensitivities within many communities here in Toronto.

Within the last two weeks, there has been violence targeting three synagogues in the GTA and the U.S. Consulate on Tuesday. These incidents have heightened concerns and contributed to a greater sense of fear and unease in the city.

People are watching these developments closely and that some are feeling concerned about how these tensions may play out during Saturday’s event.

In particular, there are concerns about the potential for hateful rhetoric, as well as the possibility of confrontation between individuals or groups with opposing views.

I want to be clear: Toronto Police take all reports of hate very seriously.

Our members will be present throughout the demonstration, and we will be actively monitoring for any incidents involving hate speech, hate-motivated crimes, hateful signage, or the display of symbols associated with terrorist organizations designated by the Government of Canada.

Any reported incident will be investigated.

And it’s important to remember that charges do not have to be immediate. Evidence gathered during or after an event can lead to charges being laid hours, days, or even weeks later.

Anyone who engages in criminal activity should expect to be held accountable.

Toronto is one of the most diverse cities in the world. People here hold a wide range of views and beliefs. Our shared responsibility is to ensure that our city remains safe, respectful, and welcoming for everyone.