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On Monday, Montreal city council adopted an amended motion regarding the Middle East conflict by a vote of 54-6, eliminating initial opposition proposals that called for the city to sever ties with Israel or accuse the state of apartheid and genocide. The original proposal, introduced by the opposition party Projet Montréal, generated significant debate and division within the council.

Proponents argued that local governments have a moral duty to address international human rights crises, while opponents contended that such matters are beyond municipal jurisdiction and could exacerbate community tensions.

Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada defended the administration's decision, stating that local leaders should focus on municipal responsibilities such as running the city, keeping residents safe, delivering services, and bringing people together. She emphasized that municipal governments are elected to avoid inflaming tensions by taking controversial positions on distant geopolitical conflicts.

The final text of the motion expresses solidarity with the Palestinian people and all civilian victims of hostilities in the Middle East. It calls for respect for international law and humanitarian law, and supports any judicial process investigating possible violations in the Gaza Strip. The amendment removed the opposition's demands to sever institutional ties with Israel and issue direct accusations of apartheid or genocide.

Critics, including the Center for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), continued to oppose the importation of international conflicts through municipal motions, despite the removal of the most controversial clauses. CIJA emphasized that elected officials should focus on Montreal's true priorities and leave divisive tactics behind.