MONTREAL — Pro-Hamas radicals disrupted a Natural Disasters course at McGill University’s Leacock Building, contributing to an atmosphere of fear and intimidation among students. One female student, whose face was concealed for privacy, stated, “We don’t feel safe, we feel intimidated!” as the situation unfolded.
Despite the growing tension, campus security personnel reportedly stood by and passively observed without intervening. The incident has raised urgent questions about the effectiveness of McGill’s safety protocols and its capacity to protect all students from politically motivated harassment.
💢Breaking-McGill University, Montréal💢
— Natasha Montreal (@NatashaMontreal) November 18, 2025
Pro-Hamas radicals take over a McGill University Natural Disasters course in the Leacock Building.
Female with concealed face, "We don't feel safe, we feel intimidated!"
"We all have blood on our hands."
Security stands and watches. pic.twitter.com/hbdrK7Z3xv
The disruption is part of a broader pattern of pro-Hamas activism and related unrest on Montreal’s university campuses, particularly in the wake of regional conflicts that intensified campus polarization. Jewish student groups and allied organizations have condemned the actions and called on university leadership to enforce stricter codes of conduct that prohibit intimidation and protect academic freedom.
Students affected by these disturbances expressed feelings of vulnerability and voiced concerns that sustained intimidation could inhibit open discourse and hamper their educational experience. The atmosphere of unease extends beyond this isolated incident, echoing prior clashes that have required legal and administrative attention.
University officials have yet to release detailed statements addressing the specific incident in the Leacock Building, but have reaffirmed commitments to campus safety and inclusivity. However, Jewish advocacy groups stress the need for proactive and clear measures to ensure that political activism does not endanger student well-being or disrupt academic environments.
“We all have blood on our hands,” one student implied during the takeover, capturing the complex emotions surrounding the volatile campus environment. The presence of radicals in academic settings poses difficult questions about balancing free expression and protecting targeted groups from harassment.
This incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Canadian universities grappling with external conflicts on campus cohesion, safety, and freedom of expression. The Jewish community and its supporters continue to advocate for a secure, respectful atmosphere where all students can study without fear of intimidation or violence.
This article is based on verified information from eyewitness accounts, student testimony, social media reports, and advocacy group statements.