Leaked private messages from student-led anti-Israel groups at a Canadian university reveal deeply disturbing content, including antisemitic imagery, praise for terrorist activity, and discussions of evading law enforcement. The chats, reviewed by the National Post, expose a radical undercurrent among pro-Palestinian activists at Western University in London, Ontario.
Two Jewish students infiltrated private chat groups following the October 7 Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel. The chats were associated with the Palestinian Cultural Club (PCC) and a separate group known as “Palestinian Solidarity Western.” The students, concerned about escalating antisemitism, joined the groups under pseudonyms and collected screenshots of messages, memes, and media shared over the course of several months.
According to the National Post, the chats contained cartoons mocking the Holocaust, memes portraying Hitler as a hero, and pro-Hamas propaganda. Members of the chat also exchanged tips on how to disguise faces during protests, advice on avoiding police scrutiny, and—most alarmingly—messages that discussed bringing knives to demonstrations under the guise of peaceful protest.
One image shared showed a Hamas fighter with the phrase “FREEDOM IS NOT FREE” overlaid on the photo. Another depicted Adolf Hitler with a caption implying regret for not completing the Holocaust. Students in the chat praised these messages, and no participants reportedly condemned the content. At least one member warned others not to post such material publicly to avoid attracting negative attention.
The Jewish students who exposed the chats have remained anonymous out of fear for their safety. They are reportedly working with legal counsel and have shared the evidence with university authorities. So far, Western University has not issued a public response.
The PCC denied the allegations, calling them “false, malicious, and defamatory.” A spokesperson said the club “stands firmly against hate and discrimination of any kind” and threatened legal action against those making the claims. However, the spokesperson did not deny the existence of the chats or the content reportedly shared within them.
The revelations raise concerns about the broader campus climate for Jewish students and whether institutions are doing enough to curb the spread of extremist ideology under the guise of activism. No charges have been filed, but legal observers note that if messages encouraging weapon use or glorifying terrorism are authenticated, law enforcement may become involved.
The report underscores a growing problem on college campuses in North America: radical elements using the Palestinian cause as a cover for antisemitic rhetoric and actions, sometimes crossing into praise for terrorism. These incidents challenge university leaders to respond decisively while protecting free speech and ensuring student safety.
