The appalling incident, which was caught on video and shared on social media, shows Engler shouting at Lantsman, demanding, “How many Palestinian children had to die before you stop supporting Israel? How many Palestinian children have been killed in the last minute before you stop supporting Israel? 50,000? Do you support Trump’s ethnic cleansing plan?” Despite Engler’s relentless badgering, Lantsman maintained her composure, simply inviting him to attend an upcoming town hall meeting.
Engler’s harassment of a Jewish MP is not an isolated event but part of a broader pattern of behavior that has long veered into intimidation and outright antisemitism. His history includes repeatedly disrupting events, physically confronting politicians, and spreading incendiary rhetoric targeting Israel and its supporters. Just days before this latest incident, Engler was arrested in Montreal for the online harassment of pro-Israel activist Dahlia Kurtz. Taken into custody on the morning of February 20, he spent five days in Bordeaux prison before being released after a court appearance. His escalating aggression, both online and in person, highlights the dangers posed by his brand of radical activism.
That Engler felt emboldened to stalk and corner a female parliamentarian—chasing her up to the very doorway of a women’s restroom—demonstrates a dangerous escalation in his tactics. This despicable act has rightly sparked outrage, with many calling for authorities to take action against such brazen harassment. Freedom of speech does not grant anyone the right to engage in targeted harassment, especially in a manner that singles out individuals based on their identity and beliefs. Engler’s actions go beyond political discourse; they are a blatant attempt to intimidate and silence a Jewish MP through fear and public humiliation.
The incident raises serious concerns about the growing climate of hostility toward Jewish politicians and pro-Israel advocates in Canada. It is unacceptable for elected officials to be subjected to such vile and invasive harassment simply for their views. This should serve as a wake-up call—political activism must never devolve into bullying and intimidation, and those who cross that line should be held accountable.
Engler’s recent arrest and his ongoing pattern of harassment should not be dismissed as isolated acts of provocation. His behavior is part of a troubling wave of antisemitic aggression sweeping across Canadian public discourse. If Engler and others like him are allowed to continue unchecked, what message does this send about the safety of Jewish politicians, students, and community members across Canada? It is time for serious consequences for those who engage in harassment under the guise of activism. Engler’s behavior was not just inappropriate—it was shameful, dangerous, and must not be tolerated.