British Columbia Premier David Eby joined other politicians in condemning the statements made at a demonstration in Vancouver where protesters chanted "Long live October 7," praising the attacks on that day carried out by Hamas against Israel.

One speaker told the gathering outside the Vancouver Art Gallery on Friday that the attacks by Hamas, which resulted in the deaths of about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, were "heroic and courageous," and Eby said it was "more hatred" than anyone could imagine.

Eby, speaking at an unrelated press conference, said it was "absolutely unacceptable" to celebrate the killing and raping of innocent civilians.

The rhetoric at the protest also drew condemnation from Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim, who described it as "a celebration of terrorism and anti-Semitism."

Sim said in a social media post that individuals who "spread this vile hatred" are unwelcome in the city.

Liberal MP for Vancouver Granville Talib Nur Muhammad said in a social media post that "glorifying October 7 is unacceptable" and does not promote peace, while British Columbia Opposition Leader Kevin Falcon described the rhetoric as "a celebration of the horrific killing of Jews."