Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow is facing increasing pressure to apologize and even resign after she accused Israel of committing "genocide" during a recent event. Chow made these remarks at a gathering organized by the National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) over the weekend. She drew a comparison between Israel's military actions aimed at combating Palestinian terrorism and Japan's occupation of China during World War II.

In her speech, Chow shared a personal story about her mother, who experienced famine as a child during the Japanese invasion of China. "My mother was a child in a war zone, she suffered famine caused by Japan when they invaded China during the Second World War," Chow said. She added, "At just 13 years old, alone after my grandmother died of dysentery, she was responsible for keeping her two brothers alive."

Chow's comments have sparked outrage among Jewish and Israeli organizations. Avi Benlolo, chairman and CEO of the Abraham Global Peace Initiative (AGPI), criticized her statements as "reckless and irresponsible." He called for an immediate apology, stating, "I was absolutely shocked that she made such an inflammatory statement that is both untrue and sows antisemitism, and supports the denial and distortion about the war in Gaza."

Benlolo also questioned why Chow did not address the actions of Palestinian groups like Hamas in her remarks. He described her comments as harmful, especially for a mayor of Canada’s largest city.

The Canadian Antisemitism Foundation echoed these sentiments, labeling Chow's remarks a "calculated insult" to Toronto's Jewish community. They stated, "The only Gaza genocide was the massacre perpetrated by Hamas and its allies against Israelis on October 7, 2023." The foundation condemned the use of the term "genocide" as false and defamatory to Israel, warning that such statements could increase risks to the Jewish community in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

The foundation's statement highlighted the rise in anti-Jewish sentiment in Canada, noting that it has reached record highs in 2024, with a 124% increase since 2022. They pointed out that anti-Israel activists have been involved in intimidation tactics, vandalism, and violence against Jewish institutions since the October 7 attacks.

Chow's comments have also drawn criticism from members of the Toronto city council. Councillor Brad Bradford expressed concern, stating that Chow should focus on local issues rather than foreign conflicts. "I wish Mayor Chow was telling people what she would do to ensure the safety of everyone in Toronto, rather than weighing in on a conflict thousands of miles away — especially when it runs counter to the government of Canada’s position," Bradford said.

As the situation develops, the calls for Chow to clarify her statements and address the concerns raised by various groups continue to grow. The impact of her remarks on community relations in Toronto remains to be seen, as tensions surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict persist.