Toronto man charged with advocating genocide against Jews

A man in Toronto has been charged with advocating genocide against the Jewish community. The charge is rare and comes with over two dozen other hate-related offences. The accused, Amir Arvahi Azar, 32, was arrested on January 11. The incidents he is accused of occurred between April 26, 2024, and January 3, 2025. Toronto police have not shared further details because of a publication ban. Azar faces a total of 29 charges, which include promoting hatred and advocating genocide. These serious charges require approval from the Ministry of the Attorney General before being laid down. They have not yet gone to court. Barbara Perry, a hate crime expert, notes that these charges are reserved for the most serious cases. She mentioned that law enforcement considers many factors before laying such charges, including the context and language used in the alleged acts. Historically, proving these types of charges in court is difficult. Between 2010 and 2020, only 43% of hate crime cases resulted in a guilty verdict. Other charges against Azar include arson, public incitement of hatred, and several weapons offences. The Deputy Chief of Police stated that the investigation was thorough, and they take these charges seriously. Azar has been released from custody on bail with conditions, including house arrest. He is expected to appear in court again on April 28. Michelle Stock of the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs expressed support for the law enforcement actions, emphasizing the importance of addressing rising antisemitism and hate in society.