GTA police step up patrols due to escalating tensions in Middle East
CBC
Police in Toronto and York Region are increasing their presence at places of worship and consular offices as tensions escalate in the Middle East.
Both police services said on social media that they are monitoring the evolving situation in the Middle East, specifically in Iran, and any impacts that could have locally.
The U.S. and Israel launched attacks on Iran Saturday as part of what U.S. President Donald Trump described as a massive operation to overthrow the country’s government.
York police said proactive patrols will be extended to community centres, schools and other gathering places in the region.
“We understand that global events can cause local safety concerns and have a profound effect on our communities,” it said on social media.
Measures are being taken for community safety and reassurance for residents, said Toronto police.
They urge residents to contact police with any safety concerns or potential suspicious activity.
While there is no threat to the GTA specifically, both services said they would work closely with all levels of government and international partners to assess community safety.
Trump posted a video on social media and addressed "the great proud people of Iran," warning them to stay safe in their homes until the attack is complete.
"When we are finished, take over your government. It will be yours to take," Trump said.
Nationwide protests in Iran started Dec. 28 in response to soaring prices, then turned into wider anti-government protests against the clerical rulers who have governed the country for nearly 50 years.
Hundreds of thousands of demonstrators across the GTA and Canada have rallied in solidarity with those supporters over the past few months.
Flights to and from Dubai on Air Canada have been cancelled as a result of the regional attacks, the airline said on social media.
Air Canada says it has no planned Tel Aviv flights today but that it will continue to monitor the situation and "will adjust our schedule accordingly."
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