Concordia University closed its Montreal campus on Oct. 7, 2025, over safety concerns amid pro-Palestinian protests marking the Hamas attack anniversary.

Concordia University closed its downtown Montreal campus on October 7, 2025, ahead of large pro-Palestinian protests marking the two-year anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel. Dozens of student groups, representing over 46,000 students, participated in a strike and demonstration, demanding divestment from Israel and calling for a ceasefire. Protesters, many wearing keffiyehs and waving Palestinian flags, marched through downtown, with some burning an Israeli flag and using smoke bombs. The university cited safety concerns and a high risk of disruption, following two arrests the previous day involving weapons and incendiary devices. The protests, part of broader international actions, reflect growing global scrutiny of Israel’s actions in Gaza, where over 67,000 people have reportedly died. The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israel’s leaders over alleged genocide, claims Israel denies.