Ottawa police increasing presence around religious institutions following Iran attacks

Ottawa Police sign outside headquarters on Elgin St. in Ottawa. (CTV News Ottawa)

The Ottawa Police Service says it will be increasing patrols around faith-based institutions in the capital following the United States and Israel’s attack on Iran.

The U.S. and Israel launched strikes in Iran on Saturday, killing Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in the process. American and Israeli strikes have continued into Sunday, and Iran has retaliated with strikes against U.S. military installations in the region.

In a statement on social media, Ottawa police said they are monitoring the situation in Iran and “any possible effects this could have in Ottawa.”

“You may see a larger police presence near religious institutions. If you have safety concerns, please contact us. In case of emergency, call 9-1-1,” police wrote.

On Saturday, a large group of demonstrators gathered near the U.S. embassy in Ottawa to show support for the U.S. and Israel’s attack on Iran.

The Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police says there are no imminent threats to Canada or Canadians.

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