Toronto Man Charged in Canada With Aiding Hamas and Calling for Harm Against Israelis and Jews

Canadian authorities have filed charges against a 33-year-old Toronto resident, Ahmad Hassan Hajaahmad, who is accused of acting on behalf of Hamas and in connection with the terror organization, after allegedly inciting harm against Jews and Israelis during pro-Palestinian demonstrations held in the city. If convicted, he could face up to ten years in prison.

The investigation was conducted jointly by Toronto Police and the Integrated National Security Enforcement Team (INSET) of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). According to the authorities, the allegations focus on Hajaahmad’s conduct during two demonstrations that took place on May 25 and September 7, 2024, in the area of Bay Street and Front Street West in downtown Toronto.

According to the indictment, during those demonstrations the defendant used amplification equipment to publicly broadcast statements calling for hatred and harm against members of the Israeli and Jewish communities.

As part of the investigation, on March 7, 2025, investigators searched Hajaahmad’s home in Toronto, during which several electronic devices were seized. After reviewing the evidence collected, Toronto Police and the INSET unit said they found evidence supporting the claim that the defendant "acted on behalf of Hamas and in connection with" the terror organization, which is designated in Canada as a terrorist organization.

Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw addressed the case: "Investigations into criminal offenses committed during demonstrations do not end when the event itself is over. As the investigation progressed, we worked closely with our partners in the INSET unit to advance the terrorism charge requested based on the investigation’s findings."

He added: "These complex investigations underscore the importance of continuing to strengthen our anti-terrorism unit, so that we can identify and investigate emerging threats to public safety. We will continue to prosecute anyone who breaks the law, no matter how long it takes."

On Monday, the Attorney General of Ontario and the Government of Canada gave their approval to file the charge in court. The following day, Hajaahmad was arrested and charged with the offense of "participating in or contributing to the activity of a terrorist organization." Later that morning, he was brought before the Ontario court for a hearing.