A 33-year-old man from Toronto, identified as Ahmad Hassan Hajahmad, is currently facing a terrorism charge due to his alleged actions during pro-Palestinian demonstrations held on May 25, 2024, and September 7, 2024. Authorities suspect that he has ties to Hamas and allege that he used an amplification device at these events to incite violence against members of the Israeli and Jewish communities.
According to Toronto police, a search warrant executed on March 7, 2025, at a residence in Toronto led to the seizure of multiple electronic devices. This operation involved the collaborative effort of the Toronto Police Service Hate Crime Unit and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). Investigators reportedly uncovered compelling evidence that Hajahmad acted on behalf of Hamas during the demonstrations.
Following the investigation, Hajahmad was arrested on July 21, 2026, and charged with participating in or contributing to activities of a terrorist group. The case remains sensitive, as officials have indicated that no further details can be disclosed due to a publication ban currently in place.
Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw emphasized the importance of ongoing investigations into criminal offenses committed during public demonstrations. He stated, “Investigations into criminal offenses committed at demonstrations do not end when the event is over." Describing the investigations as complex, he noted the necessity of reinforcing the Counter Terrorism Security Unit to swiftly address and investigate evolving threats to public safety. Chief Demkiw affirmed the commitment of law enforcement to hold individuals accountable for breaking the law, regardless of the duration of the investigations.
In contrast, Hajahmad's defense attorney, Mohamed El Rashidy, contends that his client has no links to any terrorist organizations. El Rashidy highlighted that Hajahmad has not been charged with advocating hatred or inciting harm against any groups or individuals. He asserted, “Mr. Hajahmad is presumed innocent and has no connection to Hamas or any other foreign group. He faces a single charge arising from speaking at public demonstrations. No violence, no weapon, no one harmed. Speaking out at a protest about the killing of civilians is protected expression, not terrorism.” El Rashidy expressed confidence that the case would not withstand scrutiny against the law and plans to investigate the circumstances surrounding the charges further.
The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) responded to the accusations against Hajahmad, urging government entities to enhance preventive measures against potential violent attacks reminiscent of incidents that have occurred in the U.S., England, and Australia. CIJA CEO Noah Shack remarked on the severity of the situation, stating, “It is chilling that a Toronto man has been charged with acting for the benefit of and in association with Hamas, a banned terrorist organization.” Shack called on governments and authorities across Canada to actively confront the radicalization of individuals that supports violence and terrorist organizations, emphasizing the need for adequate resources for police and national security agencies to enforce laws and protect Canadian citizens.
