A large group of vandals caused significant damage to McGill University in Montreal on Wednesday night, smashing windows and spray-painting “Free Palestine” on the institution’s entrance. The incident, which took place around 8:15 p.m., is believed to be in response to the university’s continued rejection of the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel.
McGill issued a statement on Thursday condemning the actions, emphasizing that the attack aimed to intimidate and pressure the university into changing its position. “These acts of vandalism were intended to intimidate our campus community and bully us into changing the university’s decision,” the statement read. “The university’s position rejecting BDS remains clear and firm.”
Around 40 individuals are reported to have participated in the protest, which left five buildings with broken windows and caused disruptions to ongoing classes and exams. The university stated that the attack created panic among students, faculty, and staff.
Montreal police responded promptly to the scene, but the suspects had already fled by the time officers arrived. No arrests have been made, and investigators are reviewing security camera footage to identify the vandals. The graffiti was found on the Roddick Gates at the Sherbrooke Street entrance to the university.
McGill also noted that Quebec universities have increasingly been targeted since the onset of the Israel-Hamas conflict in October 2023. The university has called on local officials and police to address these acts, which it asserts infringe on the rights of its community members to study and work in a safe environment.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions and follows controversial remarks from U.S. President Donald Trump regarding Gaza, sparking further protests and concern from rights groups.