After arson attack, Liberal MP warns violent rhetoric puts all MPs at risk

OTTAWA - Liberal MP Salma Zahid has expressed her concern over the increasing violent rhetoric directed at MPs, including the leader of another party. In August, an arson attack took place outside her home in Scarborough, Toronto, with police suspecting it was an act of arson. Zahid now has round-the-clock security at her residence, attributing it to the escalating rhetoric against fellow MPs.

She also spoke about a newspaper column advocating for action against NDP Leader Avi Lewis due to his views on Israel, stating that this could put Lewis at risk. Zahid’s remarks come after two recent arrests for death threats against Prime Minister Mark Carney, which she considers part of a larger issue. She is urging Canadians to reject violent rhetoric against their elected officials in order to maintain meaningful political discourse. This report by The Canadian Press was initially published on October 2, 2026.