Analysis
The quoted statement aligns verbatim with Trudeau’s April 24, 2018, public address following the attack, where he explicitly rejected division and hatred. While the attack was later classified as an *incel*-motivated act of violence (not traditional terrorism), Trudeau’s framing of it as an attack on societal cohesion was consistent with his remarks. The date in the context (2017) is incorrect—the attack occurred in **2018**—but the statement itself is accurately attributed.
Background
On April 23, 2018, Alek Minassian deliberately drove a van into pedestrians in Toronto, killing 10 and injuring 16. Though not tied to a recognized terrorist group, the attack was linked to extremist misogynistic ideology. Trudeau’s response emphasized national resilience and opposition to hate-driven violence, reflecting Canada’s broader counter-radicalization policies.
Verdict summary
Justin Trudeau did make this statement in the aftermath of the 2018 Toronto van attack, condemning hatred and terrorism while emphasizing unity.