The city of Ottawa has announced plans to raise the Israeli flag at city hall on May 14 to commemorate Israel's Independence Day, upholding an annual tradition since 2007. However, in a departure from previous years, the flag-raising will occur without a public ceremony, citing security considerations.
In a press release on Tuesday, the city stated that after consulting with the Ottawa Police Service and others, it would follow recommendations "based on safety and security considerations to not hold a public ceremony this year. This decision is based on recent intelligence that suggests hosting a public ceremony poses a substantial risk to public safety."
The pro-Palestinian sit-in protest at the University of Ottawa showed no signs of abating on Saturday, as demonstrators persisted with their occupation of the front lawn at Tabaret Hall. Organizers reiterated their determination to maintain the encampment "for as long as it takes" until their demands are met by the university administration.
The protest began on April 29 with protesters pitching tents on the lawn. Ayham Hakimi, one of the organizers, stressed that the demonstrators remain firmly committed to their call for "full transparency for where tuition money is going."
The city's statement highlighted Ottawa's long-standing practice of celebrating national holidays and independence days for more than 190 federally recognized countries through flag-raising events and activities, in collaboration with Global Affairs Canada. While the city will forgo a public gathering, the Israeli flag will still be raised at City Hall, continuing a tradition that has been observed annually since 2007.
