Many People Gather in Toronto to Support Iran Protests

A large group of people came together in Toronto to show they support the protests happening in Iran. They are asking for big changes in Iran. The event caused some traffic problems in the city.
By Newsroom | World News, Canada |

Thousands Gather in Toronto to Express Support for Anti-Government Protests in Iran

A large gathering took place in Toronto, drawing an estimated crowd of tens of thousands, and possibly up to 200,000 individuals, to show solidarity with ongoing anti-government protests within Iran. The event, which saw major street closures in downtown Toronto and North York, amplified calls for regime change and international intervention.

The demonstrations in Iran, which began in December, have reportedly been met with a harsh government response, including internet blackouts and violence. Reports from various sources indicate significant detentions and a substantial death toll within Iran. This situation has prompted diaspora communities, particularly in major international cities, to organize and voice their concerns.

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Key Events and Timeline

  • Protests in Iran: Nationwide demonstrations began in December.

  • Toronto Rallies: Several large rallies have occurred in Toronto in recent weeks and days, with significant events reported on February 14, 2026, and prior dates.

  • Reported Numbers: Estimates for the Toronto rally on February 14, 2026, range from over 100,000 to an expected 200,000 participants.

Official Statements and Crowd Estimates

"Toronto police expect more than 200,000 people to gather in solidarity with anti-government protesters in Iran." - The Toronto Star, CBC News, The Globe and Mail

"Toronto police said 'well over 100,000 demonstrators' attended the protest on Sunday." - RCI (CBC News)

Police estimated more than 100,000 protesters turned out Sunday afternoon. - The Toronto Star

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The discrepancy in crowd estimates, ranging from over 100,000 to an expected 200,000, highlights the scale and complexity of accurately measuring large public gatherings.

Reports from Iran

Information regarding the situation within Iran suggests a severe government crackdown on protests.

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  • Detentions: Numbers cited by the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency indicate 49,500 people detained.

  • Fatalities: The same agency reports at least 6,713 killed, with other groups estimating the death toll as high as 36,500. The Iranian government itself has stated over 3,000 people have been killed.

The wide variance in reported death tolls from Iran necessitates careful consideration of the sources and their methodologies.

Toronto Demonstrators' Demands

The rallies in Toronto have been characterized by strong calls for action and change.

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  • Regime Change: A central theme of the protests was the demand for the overthrow of the current government in Iran.

  • International Intervention: Some demonstrators called for external support and intervention in Iran.

  • Recognition of Crown Prince: There were calls for the Canadian government to recognize Iran's exiled crown prince, Reza Pahlavi, as the leader of Iran.

  • End to Repression: Protesters demanded an end to government repression within Iran.

Global Coordination

The Toronto rally was part of a larger, coordinated global day of action.

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  • International Gatherings: Similar protests were organized in other major cities, including Munich and Los Angeles, indicating a global effort by the Iranian diaspora.

  • "Lion-and-Sun Revolution": The Toronto rally was specifically referred to as a rally for Iran's "Lion-and-Sun Revolution."

Impact on Toronto Infrastructure

The large turnout significantly impacted city services and traffic.

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  • Street Closures: Major thoroughfares, including Yonge Street in North York and parts of downtown Toronto, were closed to traffic.

  • TTC Diversions: Public transit services, particularly the 97 Yonge bus, experienced detours and significant delays.

  • Station Access: Access to North York Centre Station was limited and monitored due to high foot traffic.

  • Extreme Delays: Police and transit authorities warned of "extreme" traffic and transit delays expected to last for several hours.

The logistical challenges posed by such a large-scale event underscore the need for robust planning and public communication from authorities.

Participant Perspectives

Attendees expressed personal concerns and broader political motivations.

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  • Concern for Relatives: Iranian-Canadians attending the rally voiced concerns for family members still residing in Iran.

  • Voice for Iranians: Demonstrators aimed to act as a voice for the people of Iran who are unable to freely express themselves.

Conclusion

The extensive rallies held in Toronto serve as a significant expression of solidarity with the anti-government movement in Iran. The sheer number of participants and the clear demands for regime change and international attention highlight the diaspora's engagement with the situation in their homeland. The events also presented considerable logistical challenges for the city, necessitating extensive coordination between law enforcement and transit authorities. The calls for specific political outcomes, such as the recognition of Reza Pahlavi, suggest a complex political landscape within the Iranian diaspora. Further observation will be needed to assess the impact of these demonstrations on international policy and the ongoing situation in Iran.

Sources Used

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did many people gather in Toronto?
People gathered to show they support the protests happening in Iran and to ask for the government there to change.
Q: How many people came to the rally?
It is thought that over 100,000 people, and maybe up to 200,000, came to the event.
Q: Did the rally affect the city?
Yes, many streets were closed, and buses had to go different ways because so many people were there.