Up to 350,000 people flooded a stretch of Yonge Street in North York on Saturday in what police described as one of the largest Iran-related demonstrations the city has seen in recent months.

The rally, part of a worldwide Global Day of Action called by exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi, brought major road closures, transit adjustments and hours of gridlock to the city’s north end — but for the most part, outside of one arrest, demonstrations unfolded peacefully.

Protesters draped themselves in red, white and green flags emblazoned with a golden lion — the flag Iran used before the Islamic Republic came to power in 1979, toppling the previous monarchy.

Protesters Protesters march in support of regime change in Iran during a demonstration in Toronto, on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sammy Kogan

Demonstrators called for an end to government repression in Iran as widespread protests inside the country have been met with violent crackdowns.

The march began south of Steeles Avenue shortly after 11 a.m. and moved southbound along Yonge Street toward North York Boulevard near Mel Lastman Square.

Police had initially warned that attendance levels “may exceed” 200,000 and issued full road closures between Steeles and North York Boulevard for much of the afternoon, with additional restrictions in surrounding areas.

Protesters Protesters march in support of regime change in Iran during a demonstration in Toronto, on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sammy Kogan

“200,000 is the estimated number of people attending, and that is a large number, but we’re ready for it,” Const. Viktor Sarudi told CP24 ahead of the march.

However by early afternoon, police later told CP24 that numbers grew to an estimated 350,000.

The TTC also adjusted service throughout the afternoon, including detours on the 97 Yonge bus route and controlled access at North York Centre Station. Sheppard Station was recommended as an alternate exit point as crowds moved through the area.

Protesters Protesters march in support of regime change in Iran during a demonstration in Toronto, on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sammy Kogan

Police said they expected the rally to remain calm, as they have seen to be consistent with previous Iran-related demonstrations in the city.

The one individual who was arrested was charged with assault, as police noted further information would be revealed at a later date.

Prior to this rally, an estimated 150,000 people attended a major protest two weeks ago at Sankofa Square in Toronto’s downtown core.

iran protest Protesters march in support of regime change in Iran during a demonstration in Toronto, on Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sammy Kogan

“They have been historically peaceful in the city, and that is what we’re anticipating today,” Sarudi previously said.

With Saturday’s turnout already surpassing previous numbers, it took until shortly before 6 p.m. for roads to once again reopen.

The rally coincided with other similar protests that took place in major cities around the world.

DEMONSTRATION: UPDATE
All roads are now open
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— Toronto Police Operations (@TPSOperations) February 14, 2026

With files from CTV’s News Toronto’s Phil Tsekouras and The Canadian Press…