14 May 2018 | 03:45 PM UTC
Canada: Protest at US Embassy in Ottawa May 14
Protest at US Embassy in Ottawa against US Embassy opening in Jerusalem (Israel) on May 14; heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions expected
Event
A protest in front of the US Embassy in Ottawa is set to take place on Monday, May 14, over the planned move of the US Embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Demonstrations are expected to take place between 12:00 and 17:00 (local time) on the MacKenzie Street side of the embassy. Local authorities are aware of the demonstration and will have an increased presence in the area, although the event is likely to remain peaceful. Localized transportation disruptions are expected in the vicinity of the demonstration.
Context
In December 2017, US President Donald Trump announced that the US would officially recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital, a departure from the previous US and international position of neutrality on the status of the city, claimed by both Israelis and Palestinians. In February, American officials announced that the US would open a temporary embassy location in Jerusalem by mid-May 2018, ahead of the previously anticipated schedule.
Advice
Individuals in Ottawa are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
