Why the Hamas-Israel ceasefire is perilously fragile and could be sabotaged

As the ceasefire unfolds, we must question whether it will hold or devolve into another opportunity for Israel to continue its persecution, oppression and genocide of Palestinians.  

 

By Fareed Khan

 

As the world cautiously welcomes a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, the specter of violence in Gaza hasn't completely disappeared. The announcement of a truce, ostensibly meant to end the brutal, genocidal violence that Israel has been committing against Palestinians for 15 months, has not quelled the fears of many who know all too well the precariousness of such agreements.  Observers are right to worry that Israel will exploit this moment, using the days leading up to the ceasefire as an opportunity to inflict even more harm on an already traumatized Palestinian population.

 

History teaches us that ceasefires, whether it's in the Middle East or elsewhere, have frequently been preceded by cycles of bloodshed by one side or another as they try to gain advantage before things become set in stone. In the case of Palestinians and Israel, the grim reality is that time and again, agreements have faltered due to a deeply entrenched mistrust rooted in actions that speak louder than words.  The current ceasefire is strikingly similar to the proposal floated back in May 2023, which Israel callously rejected and blamed Hamas for its failure, while it continued its campaign of genocide. This pattern raises a chilling question, can Israel ever be trusted to uphold its commitments to peace?

The alarming reports that surfaced almost immediately following the ceasefire announcement illustrated this distrust in stark detail.  Within hours, Israeli jets bombed a crowd of Palestinians who were celebrating what should have been a hopeful turning point.  Such actions are not incidental; they are symptomatic of a state led by political figures whose ideologies are steeped in militarism and genocidal ideology, and an unyielding commitment to territorial expansion at the expense of Palestinian lives.

Figures like Israeli cabinet ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben Gvir — anti-Palestinian racists and intractable proponents of right-wing extremism — have already expressed intentions to undermine the ceasefire.  This defiance is not only reckless but indicative of a broader mentality within Israel's leadership.  Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's suggestion that Hamas was breaching the agreement even before the ink was dry speaks volumes about the dubiousness of any Israeli commitment to peace.

The international community bears witness to these flagrant violations of norms, including the Geneva Conventions and various resolutions from the United Nations Security Council going back decades, which stipulate the requirement for humane treatment of occupied populations during times of conflict.  For decades Israel's actions have included crimes against humanity, underpinned by an ideological justification that is both alarming and abhorrent.  Israel continues to embody a level of state-sponsored violence and terrorism that, over the past 15 months, has resulted in more than 54,000 Palestinian deaths (the vast majority women and children), the displacement of more than two million Gaza residents, the damage or destruction of more than 77% of Gaza's buildings, and unimaginable suffering and misery for countless innocent Palestinians.

A host of scholars and human rights activists — including many who identify as Jewish — have condemned the Israeli government for its genocidal policies. They have been joined by Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and more than a dozen nations that are prosecuting Israel for committing genocide at the International Court of Justice.  Their voices resound among the millions of people worldwide who stand in solidarity with Palestinians, recognizing that such systemic violence can never be justified or overlooked.  Among those who have become critics of Israel include many Holocaust survivors and their descendants who have been particularly vocal, drawing parallels between their own history and the current plight of Palestinians.

Yet, where is the accountability?  More than a dozen countries — including moral leaders like South Africa, and Canada's NATO allies Belgium, Spain and Türkiye — are urging international judicial action against Israeli and its leaders for their genocidal crimes.  Sadly, nations that once prided themselves on human rights advocacy, like Canada, have instead chosen to align themselves with the very perpetrators of this tragedy, effectively turning a blind eye to the suffering of the most persecuted minority in the world.

As the ceasefire unfolds, we must question whether it will hold or devolve into another opportunity for Israel to continue its persecution, oppression and genocide of Palestinians.  The global stage is set not only for potential humanitarian relief but also for a deeper reckoning with the ongoing complicity of Western nations in supporting a regime that has perpetuated horrific violence against Palestinians, and denies the human rights of those living under its occupation.

The question looms, will the world (particularly the West) turn its back on Palestinians the way it has for the past 15 months?  Or will political leaders finally rise to the occasion and begin to pursue criminal accountability for the architects of this grave humanitarian crisis?  

The Gaza ceasefire, while a glimmer of hope, is a precarious one. For it is built atop a foundation of broken promises, historical injustices, and a persistent pattern of persecution against the Palestinian people going back decades.  If this deal crumbles — as it may given Netanyahu's refusal to hold a cabinet meeting to ratify the deal only a day after it was announced — those responsible must be held accountable for their actions.   

History will remember not only the tens of thousands of dead and the suffering of millions in Gaza but also the silence of those Western leaders who had the power to stop the carnage but didn't.  The time for genuine international action was ignored again and again since October 2023, but now there is a chance at peace and pursuing accountability lest we find ourselves continuing to be haunted by the specter of complicity, while the cries of the innocent victims continue to echo across the region and the world.

© 2025 The View From Here.  © 2025 Fareed Khan.  All Rights Reserved.

Poilievre receives backlash to "racism is a recent phenomenon in Canada" comment in interview with far right, extremist personality Jordan Peterson

This manipulation of historical facts is reminiscent of tactics employed by far-right politicians in other Western nations, the goal of which is to erase legitimate grievances and normalize hate, racism and bigotry. 

 

By Fareed Khan

 

Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre sat down for an interview with far-right, extremist personality Jordan Peterson — a figure notorious for his racist, transphobic and misogynist views on social and cultural issues.  During the conversation, Poilievre supported a statement made by Peterson, one that sent shockwaves through the political landscape.  Peterson claimed that that racism in Canada is a recent phenomenon, and Poilievre added to the outrageous claim that racism was the fault of “socialists”, “progressives”, and “wokeism”. These claims are not merely misguided, they reveal a deeper, more unsettling reality about Poilievre's political ethos — the normalization of racism and revisionist history that serves his partisan interests as he lusts for power.

 

© 2022 Michael deader.  © 2022 The Hill Times.

Historically, Canada is not a pristine bastion of racial harmony, as Poilievre would like to suggest.  The country has grappled with a legacy of systemic oppression, racism and white supremacy, as evidenced by the genocide of Indigenous peoples, the Chinese “head tax”, a history of institutional antisemitism prior to World War II, the internment of Japanese Canadians during the war, systemic anti-Black racism, and more recently Islamophobia in the form of government policies targeting Muslims, as well as the decades of institutional and systemic racism against Palestinians.  Each of these instances demonstrates that racism and bigotry are deeply woven into the fabric of this nation, contradicting Poilievre's assertion that it is a modern invention of the left and the “woke”.  Such a blatant dismissal of history is not just alarming it is dangerous, and it fuels the delusions of racist and white supremacist elements in society.

By framing racism as a recent phenomenon, Poilievre effectively denies the lived experiences of countless Canadians who have faced racial injustice and continue to do so today.  Furthermore, it undermines critical conversations about the systemic and structural inequalities that racialized communities experience.  His rhetoric serves to advance a narrative that minimizes the past and misleads the public about the ongoing struggles for racial justice that Black people, Indigenous people, and persons of colour are dealing with today.

This manipulation of historical facts is reminiscent of tactics employed by far-right politicians in other Western nations, the goal of which is to erase legitimate grievances and normalize hate, racism and bigotry.  By declaring that racism is a recent import Poilievre emboldens extremist elements in society, creating a bullseye on the backs of BIPOC communities which are already vulnerable to discrimination.  It is an extremely cynical ploy demonstrating that Poilievre cares little for maintaining social harmony in Canada’s pluralistic society.

Rachel Gilmore, a journalist who analyzed the interview, points out that Poilievre’s comments resonate deeply with a broader trend of right-wing populism that thrives on division and fear.  The Conservative leader’s rhetoric is not simply an isolated moment but rather part of a systematic approach to galvanizing support from a voter base that finds solace in grievances against “woke” ideologies.  Such an agenda has the potential to foster an environment where social justice advocates are labeled as enemies of the state for challenging hate and bigotry in this country.

The implications of Poilievre's ideological leanings extend beyond mere dialogue.  They signal his support for a political culture increasingly hostile to conversations surrounding combatting hate and racism, and supporting diversity and equity.  Under his leadership, the Conservative Party appears poised to leverage a narrative that condemns advocates of social justice while promoting the idea that concerns about racism are exaggerated or unfounded.  This creates an atmosphere where discrimination can fester untreated, further marginalizing communities that have faced systemic barriers for decades, barriers which continue to exist today and will be augmented under a Poilievre government.

The rise of this type of political rhetoric in Canada is indicative of a troubling trend in democracies across the globe — a calculated attempt to rewrite history to fit a politically expedient narrative.  Just as we have seen in the United States, where figures like Donald Trump have dismissed and downplayed America’s long history of racism, Poilievre's words signal an unsettling alignment with those ideologies.  We must not forget that Poilievre himself has benefitted from white privilege and has built a career as a professional politician in a country founded on racism, white supremacy, genocide and colonialism.  In the process of being a politician and becoming leader of the Conservatives he has put himself in a position where he is out of touch with the day to day realities faced by his fellow Canadians, many of whom live in the shadow of Canada’s racist history, and will never live the privileged life that he does.

Failing to confront or denying the ugly truths of our past allows attacks on racial justice movements to flourish.  This dangerous rhetoric nurtures an environment where hate can thrive unchecked, posing a grave threat to social cohesion. As we’ve seen in other countries, the results can be catastrophic — fostering division, hostility, and an erosion of the rights of marginalized communities.

As citizens, it is crucial that we hold our political leaders accountable for their words and actions. Rather than remaining passive observers, we must actively engage in conversations about racism, social justice, and historical accountability.  Organizations like Canadians United Against Hate and others have rightly called upon the public to reject Poilievre’s dangerous ideas and demand transparency and accountability from a leader who seeks the highest office in the land.

The moral imperative to confront and dismantle these harmful narratives has never been clearer.  Like other nations, Canada is not immune to the rising tide of far-right politics, and if Poilievre is to become our next prime minister, his denial of the country's history of racism risks not only the integrity of Canadian democracy but also the safety and well-being of minority and marginalized communities.

In combatting this dangerous rhetoric, we must recommit ourselves to building a society founded on diversity, acceptance, equality, and racial justice. The vast majority of Canadians embrace pluralistic values that promote equity and respect for all.  Allowing divisive political rhetoric to dominate our discourse is unacceptable. We must proactively counter these ideologies by lifting up the voices of those marginalized by racism and advocating for systemic change.

It is imperative that we stand together against the normalization of dangerous narratives like Poilievre's.  We must acknowledge and engage with our history, recognizing the injustices that have shaped our society, and continue to affect it today.  In doing so, we can foster a Canada that is not only aware of its past but is also committed to creating a more just and equitable future for all its citizens.

Ultimately, it is the responsibility of every Canadian to challenge the dismissals of racism and to fight against those who push ideologies that seek to undermine our values.  The stakes are too high to remain silent in the face of such dangerous rhetoric.  We must act, ensuring that hate remains on the fringes, while we collectively strive for a more inclusive and just society.  This is not merely a political responsibility; it is a moral obligation we owe to ourselves and to future generations.

© 2025 The View From Here.  © 2025 Fareed Khan.  All Rights Reserved.

Canada and its political leaders will be held accountable for complicity in the genocide of Palestinians by Israel

It is time to hold all Canadian leaders accountable – political, corporate, academic or otherwise – who have tried to silence and erase Palestinian voices, before another year passes and thousands more innocents are murdered in a genocide that is the most transparent in history.

By Fareed Khan

As the year 2025 begins, the phrase “Happy New Year” rings hollow for millions around the world, especially for the Palestinian people enduring the horrors of genocide in Gaza.  The scale of the atrocities committed by Israel against Palestinians — recognized as genocide by the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, the University Network for Human Rights (a global consortium of university human rights centres) and the UN Special Committee to investigate Israel’s war in Gaza (among others) — is horrific.

Over 54,000 Palestinians have been reported killed since the genocide began in October 2023 according to Geneva-based Euromed Human Rights Monitor.  Among the dead are 17,627 children and 10,892 women.  In addition, 113,220 have been injured, well over 90% of the population has been displaced, more than 90% of the hospitals and health care facilities have been destroyed, over 77% all the buildings in Gaza have been destroyed or damaged, and the enclave has been transformed into a post-apocalyptic hellscape.  However, a report released by the British medical journal Lancet in June 2024 estimates the actual Palestinian death toll could be as high as 186,000 or even higher — that’s roughly 8% of Gaza’s population.

Yet, despite the overwhelming evidence that has been revealed to the world of Israel’s crimes Canada continues to stand with the US and other Western nations in support of the terrorist state, and has turned a blind eye to the immense suffering that has been inflicted on an innocent people without an army, navy or air force to defend themselves against one of the most powerful military forces in the world.

The complicity of Canada in the ongoing genocide is not merely a matter of indifference, it is an active endorsement through Canada’s continued military support and trade relations with Israel.  When Russia invaded Ukraine Canada took quick and decisive action against the Russian government and key officials by suspending trade and imposing sanctions.  No such action has been taken against Israel despite the fact that the evidence of Israeli crimes is far greater than the evidence that had been presented against Russia during the early stages of the invasion of Ukraine.

Canadian-made weapons have contributed directly to the violence inflicted upon Palestinian civilians — violence that has been institutionalized and perpetuated at an astonishing rate.  What more must transpire for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre and other Canadian politicians to recognize that Canada is not a neutral observer of Israeli crimes but rather an enabler of the genocide of Palestinians?

The Nuremberg Trials after World War 2 defined the crimes that the Nazis had committed as the ultimate crime against humanity.  So, for Canada and its leaders to support a nation that commits such acts, whether through words or actions, makes them just as culpable in the crimes committed.  

Leaders like Trudeau and Poilievre exemplify a political establishment at every level in Canada steeped in this complicity.  Despite the outcry from hundreds of thousands of Canadian via emails and weekly pro-Palestinian demonstrations in different locations across the country, and public sentiment that increasingly opposes Canada’s support for Israel, both leaders and their parties continue to voice support for the racist Apartheid state and its so-called right to defend itself, perpetuating a narrative that denies recognition of the lived experiences and suffering of Palestinians.

The polls also tell a disturbing story with a majority of Canadians opposing the government’s tacit and explicit support for Israel, expressing a collective awareness of the genocide being perpetrated.  There is a growing recognition among Canadians that we are faced with a moral crisis at the highest levels of politics in this country which requires us as ordinary citizens to respond and stand up for the humanity and dignity of a brutally oppressed people when our leaders choose to sideline humanity for political expediency.  While the voices of justice for the Palestinian cause find amplification on social media platforms, a question persists – if we do not demand that our government cease its complicity in genocide now, what will we say when history asks us what we did while a modern genocide unfolded every day before our eyes?

It is crucial to understand that the political complicity of Trudeau, Poilievre, their parties, and others transcends mere rhetoric. These leaders have made conscious choices to sustain policies and relationships that embolden the oppressive, racist regime in Israel, benefiting from a geopolitical stance that echoes colonial values while providing Israel with the means to continue its catastrophic assault on Palestinians.  The failure to act against such policies is a fundamental betrayal of the humanitarian principles that Canada professes to uphold.

Any reasonable person must question the moral fabric that underpins a government’s decision to foster international relationships with states that engage in actions that fit the legal definition of “genocide.”  The course that the Canadian government has taken reflects an insensitive and heatless approach that can only stem from deeply entrenched and systemic anti-Palestinian racism and a disregard for the value of Palestinian lives.  The pervasive anti-Palestinian sentiment that permeates Canada’s political ecosystem indicates a willingness to be silent and do nothing when deadly violence is committed against defenceless people, when it aligns with domestic political concerns, which in this case means maintaining support among certain segments of Jewish Canadian voters who support Israel’s racist, Zionist ideology and its goals of erasing Palestinians from the lands controlled by Israel.

Moreover, the absence of accountability for these actions is deeply disturbing.  Trudeau’s and Poilievre’s insistence on narratives that disproportionately favor Israel stands as a testament to Canada’s political double standards when you compare this country’s response to crimes committed by Russia against Ukraine and Israeli crimes against Palestinians.  How can we reconcile this difference in response to Israel in the face of irrefutable evidence of war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide, compared to Canada’s actions against Russia?  How can we overlook the responsibility that leaders hold when their words and actions enable the perpetuation of brutal and sustained violence?  The case for charging politicians like Trudeau and Poilievre with complicity in these crimes is not without precedent.  It is a demand for accountability rooted in the law and a commitment to justice. 

As evidence mounts and global condemnation rises, Canadians must no longer accept the perpetuation of complicity in genocide through their political leadership. It is a moral imperative to demand immediate policy changes, renouncing military support for Israel and advocating for Palestinian rights unequivocally.  Silence, in this case, only furthers complicity, becoming an extension of the violence that is inflicted upon countless individuals in Gaza, as well as against Palestinian voices in Canada fighting for justice and freedom for their people.

To quote Ha’aretz columnist B. Michael from a column he wrote in May of this year, “What did we learn from the Holocaust?  Nothing.”  By supporting Israel as it commits genocide, selling it weapons used to commit genocidal crimes, and refusing to condemn its criminal acts, Canada’s leaders are not only flouting the international laws, conventions and treaties this nation claims to uphold, they are also demonstrating that all the lessons of the Holocaust have been forgotten or (more likely) are being wilfully ignored for the sake of domestic political considerations, thereby enabling horrific crimes.

Everyday that passes where innocent lives continue to be extinguished is a painful reminder of our governments’ failures.  The discourse must shift from complicity to accountability.  Canadians must mobilize more than they already have — raising voices, lobbying for change, and striving to elect and support leaders who value humanity over politics.  The human suffering and misery that has unfolded in Gaza since October 2023 requires nothing less than a resolute demand for justice and political reprisals against those did nothing to help stop the carnage, or worse yet supported the criminal regime committing the crimes.

As 2025 begins, we cannot let it simply be the start of another year of indifference.  Instead, let it be the beginning of a year when Canadians compel their leaders to find their humanity, when we stand in solidarity with the oppressed and brutalized, and when we demand that our leaders be charged and tried for their criminal complicity in the genocide Israel is committing against the Palestinian people.  The call for justice is loud and long overdue.  Let it echo through the halls of power and pierce the complacency, indifference and prejudice that enables Israel’s atrocities in Gaza.  It is time to hold all Canadian leaders accountable – political, corporate, academic or otherwise – who have tried to silence and erase Palestinian voices, before another year passes and thousands more innocents are murdered in a genocide that is the most transparent in history.

 

© 2024 The View From Here.  © 2024 Fareed Khan.  All Rights Reserved.

Pierre Poilievre: A Leader Unfit for Canada

His willingness to cozy up to individuals and movements that espouse hate — be it racism, Islamophobia, anti-LGBTQ2 sentiments, or conspiratorial ideologies — reveals the depths of his moral depravity.

By Fareed Khan

 

The political landscape in Canada is undergoing a significant shift and 2025 will be a pivotal year for Canada politically.  With Pierre Poilievre at the helm of the Conservative Party, many Canadians find themselves grappling with the prospect of his ascendance to the role of Prime Minister at the next federal election.  While some might find solace in his substantial polling leads over Justin Trudeau, a closer inspection reveals a deeply concerning portrait of a man whose values, behavior, and ethos are fundamentally incompatible with the needs of our diverse and complex society.

This is a man who has been described as “Canada’s most dangerous, appalling politician.”  A man who willingly and knowingly taps into some of voters’ worst instincts, stoking populist rage in Canada in much the same way that Donald Trump has in the US.

 

 
Pierre Poilievre is the embodiment of the career politician and white privilege -- a man who has never held a job where his salary wasn't paid through the public purse.  He earns a staggering $300,000 a year paid by taxpayers (five times the Canadian average), and his entire political existence is predicated on the very system that he claims to abhor.  

Despite his rhetoric condemning “elites,” he has positioned himself squarely within the upper echelon of society for his entire adult life.  He currently lives in a taxpayer-funded mansion and enjoys a suite of benefits that includes a chauffeur-driven SUV, personal chefs, staff to maintain his house and property, and  24/7 security detail.  In addition, all of his household expenses – heat, hydro, phone, internet, etc. – are paid through the public purse.  During his time as an MP he has also become a millionaire due to his taxpayer funded salary, and amassed a sizeable real estate portfolio.  Living such a life of privilege makes Poilievre’s connection to the average Canadian utterly non-existent, despite his claims to understand the pain that Canadian families are experiencing at this time.

In an era where many Canadians struggle with the rising cost of living, Poilievre’s opulence feels like a slap in the face to those who are genuinely striving to make ends meet.  How can any Canadian trust a man who benefits so enormously from public funds but has demonstrated no real understanding of the challenges faced by everyday citizens?  If elected as Prime Minister, this disconnect would only widen, potentially leaving millions to navigate the economic landscape without the leadership and empathy they deserve.

Like Trump has done in the US, Poilievre has also cultivated and stoked hate and division among Canadian voters.  His embracing of the convoy protesters that occupied downtown Ottawa in 2022 also gave support to white supremacist, racist, Islamophobic, antisemitic, and anti-LGBTQ elements.  This approach is alarming and raises fundamental questions about whether he has a moral compass.



His willingness to cozy up to individuals and movements that espouse hate — be it racism, Islamophobia, anti-LGBTQ2 sentiments, or conspiratorial ideologies — reveals the depths of his moral depravity.  By embracing individuals within the Diagolon movement and echoing extremist views, he has consolidated a following that thrives on division rather than unity, fostering an atmosphere of intolerance in a country where inclusion and diversity essential to maintaining the pluralism that the majority of Canadians embrace.

His divisive political rhetoric, which has increased in tenor over the past year, will not only shred the fabric of Canadian society but it will also encourage a culture where hate is normalized.  For a leader who claims to protect “freedom,” he paradoxically undermines the freedoms of many minority communities by compromising their safety and dignity.  Rather than offering a vision for a better Canada that embodies empathy and acceptance, Poilievre’s rhetoric often borders on the incendiary — propagating an agenda that stands in stark contrast to what the majority of Canadians truly desire..

For a majority of Canadians, empathy, compassion, and progressive values should be foundational traits for any leader aspiring to guide a diverse nation.  Unfortunately, Pierre Poilievre has shown little to no understanding of these principles.  His tendency to fabricate, manipulate, and gaslight demonstrates a willingness to deceive at the expense of those he should represent. It’s a troubling reality that has allowed him to build a base loyal not to truth or integrity, but rather to his ability to stoke anger and resentment.

Rather than fostering dialogue and understanding among citizens, Poilievre opts to exploit fears and grievances.  His aggressive demeanor and penchant for personal attacks reflect a desperation for power that is unbecoming of any leader. When scrutinizing his record, one cannot help but conclude that he thrives in chaos, and seeks instability to construct a platform on which he can rise to the pinnacle of power in Canada.  He is the opposite of a visionary leader, who would work to bridge divides and not exacerbate them.

The idea of Pierre Poilievre becoming Prime Minister is one that should instill fear in every Canadian.  His policies seem tailor-made for the privileged few, prioritizing corporate interests over programs for the most vulnerable among us.  By proposing cuts to government spending, which would target essential programs that benefit the most vulnerable, he neglects responsibility towards fostering community resilience and improving the lives of those who struggle daily.

His agenda would cater unabashedly to the wealthy and privileged, projecting a vision of Canada that sidelines marginalized voices. In a country that has historically prided itself on providing a safety net for everyone, Poilievre’s inclinations represent a stark contrast to the progressive ethos that most Canadians support, one that recognizes our collective responsibility to uplift one another.  

Furthermore, he has stated his willingness to use the Canadian Charter of Rights “notwithstanding” clause to overturn the fundamental rights of Canadians to achieve political goals.  When a leader denies basic human rights for the sake of political expediency, this reveals their fundamental unfitness to lead.

It's telling that even seasoned political insiders have described Poilievre’s personality as one of “anti-charisma.”  The disconnect he maintains with the electorate, paired with his inclination toward petulance, further alienates him from the core values that bind Canadians together.  Rather than being a unifying force, he embodies a politics of irritation that fosters discontent rather than broad national solidarity.

Much like Donald Trump — his ideological hero — Poilievre is adept at creating an atmosphere rife with hostility and divisiveness.  This reactionary approach appeals to the lowest common denominator but does little to inspire hope or a collective vision for a better future.  The manifestation of such politics is not just dangerous, it is potentially destructive.

Each turn of the political wheel presents an opportunity for re-evaluation, and as the next federal election looms Canadians must reflect deeply on whether Pierre Poilievre embodies the values they want in a Prime Minister.  If Canadians want a progressive government that caters to the needs and interests of the majority it is incumbent upon us to reject a political figure who thrives on manipulative rhetoric, embraces hateful elements in his party, and promotes division.

Canada deserves a leader who embodies a vision that seeks to unite and uplift — not one who revels in chaos and dissension.

In this pivotal moment, we cannot remain passive observers since the stakes for the country are far too high.  it's time for Canadians who oppose Poilievre's vision for Canada to band together to confront the toxic politics represented by the Conservative Party and ensure a future that aligns with the values of inclusion, compassion, and unity that all Canadians can hold dear.  The time for action is now.  Together we can build a better Canada — one that rejects the dangerous allure of divisive politics and instead champions progress for all.

Fareed Khan is the founder of Canadians United Against Hate, a human rights activist, and has spoken and written extensively on public policy issues affecting the lives and the rights of Canadians.

© 2024 The View From Here.  © 2024 Fareed Khan.  All Rights Reserved.

Donald Trump’s second presidency a looming threat to Canada and the western hemisphere

If Trump believes that it is America’s right to exert control over Greenland for strategic reasons then there’s also little standing in the way of his administration taking a similar approach to Canada, Mexico or other nations in the hemisphere where the national security, economic or strategic interests of the US are prioritized above all else.  

By Fareed Khan

 

As the world stands on the precipice of a new administration in the United States, the election of Donald Trump to his second term as president raises urgent questions regarding peace and stability in the Western Hemisphere, in the context of increasing American nationalism.  Since his election in November his unpredictable musings have not been limited to very damaging economic policy proposals, but have also extended into the realm of possible violations of the territory and sovereignty of other nations, and could involve potential military aggression against friends and allies.  Under such a scenario it is imperative for Canada and its neighbouring nations to prepare for the potential fallout of Trump’s erratic behaviour, and ambitions which echo a distinctly fascistic ideology that could threaten North American unity and the sovereignty of nations surrounding the US.

Rhetoric of aggression

The threatening comments emanating from Trump and his camp are alarming.  At a dinner with Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau and some of his senior officials at his Mar-a-Lago estate in November Trump floated the ludicrous idea of making Canada the 51st state when responding to Trudeau’s comment about the devastating impact of Trump’s suggested 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico, nations with which the US renegotiated a free trade agreement in 2020.  While some within the United States may laugh off these comments as a bad joke or mere politics, they breed a toxic environment of hostility that undermine long-standing cordial and stable relationship that Canada has had with the US.

A recent Leger poll released in early December in Canada, 13% of Canadians expressed support for Canada joining the US, demonstrating a disturbing inclination within a segment of the Canadian population towards Trump’s imperialistic vision.  It suggests that some Canadians are willing to sacrifice Canada’s autonomy and the freedom of their fellow Canadians for perceived benefits like lower taxes and the right to own firearms that come with American citizenship.  This mindset reflects a vulnerability within Canada’s population that can be exploited by those within the Trump movement ho wish to see Canada absorbed into the US, stripping it of its identity, culture, and independence.

Threats to sovereignty

Canada and the US have been friends and allies for well over a century, and have enjoyed a relatively peaceful and cordial relationship characterized by mutual respect.  But Trump’s blatant disregard for this history and the norms of diplomacy and international relations threatens to destabilize what has been a long-standing and mutually beneficial alliance and economic partnership.  Furthermore, the repercussions of his approach to relations between the US and other friends and allies in the hemisphere could lead to a realignment of treaties and agreements that have safeguarded the boundaries and relationships of sovereign states in North America.

Consider Trump’s ominous musings regarding the potential for American military intervention in Mexico to combat drug cartels.  Reports suggest that there are plans being contemplated within his inner circle that would disregard Mexican sovereignty and undermine international law to go after narcotics kingpins.  Such discussions raise profound concerns about American military imperialism, evoking historical memories of US interventions in Latin America that often sought to establish control rather than collaborate with neighbouring countries for mutual benefit.

The Greenland Calculus

In addition, Trump’s past fixation with controlling Greenland as an “absolute necessity for purposes of national security,” is not an isolated incident.  And given his history as a businessman it but shows a pattern of behaviour that indicates a willingness to disregard laws and legal niceties, and even the territorial integrity of other nations, if it helps him achieve his objectives.  In response to Trump’s most recent social media post about buying the territory Greenland’s prime minister made it unequivocally clear that the territory is “not for sale.”  Additionally, Denmark’s reaction, to Trump’s comments was to announce that it would significantly boost defence spending for the territory, and indicates the seriousness with which the Danish government take Trump’s rhetoric.  When Trump made a similar comment about buying Greenland in 2019 the foreign affairs spokesman for the Danish People’s Party said, “If he is truly contemplating this, then this is final proof, that he has gone mad.”

Given the proximity of Canada’s eastern Arctic territory to Greenland such posturing by Trump brings this country squarely into the frame as a player in a geopolitical game where the end result would be very bad news for all the parties involved if he decided on a military option to make his vision a reality.  And given his comments during his first term about his admiration for Hitler and other authoritarian figures, and his proclivity to do anything to get what he wants, it would be within the realm of possibility that he would violate the territorial integrity of other nations to achieve his foreign policy goals.

If Trump believes that it is America’s right to exert control over Greenland for strategic reasons then there’s also little standing in the way of his administration taking a similar approach to Canada, Mexico or other nations in the hemisphere where the national security, economic or strategic interests of the US are prioritized above all else.  Such actions could potentially lead to military mobilization that could have dire repercussions not just for North America but also for the NATO trans-Atlantic relationship, which has been the foundation that has underpinned peace and stability in Europe since after World War 2.

The threat to take back the Panama Canal

Trump’s latest target for his imperialist ambitions is Panama.  In a speech in Phoenix on December 22nd he threatened to take back the Panama Canal if that nation’s government didn’t reduce shipping fees.  This is another example of Trump’s restorationist rhetoric — an attempt to re-establish US dominance based on its imperialist past regardless of contemporary realities.  This call has reverberated poorly across Central America where it is seen as inflammatory, and risks reigniting tensions between the US and many Latin American countries, after those nations have worked hard to move past fears about the US violating their sovereignty

The Panamanian president’s emphatic response asserting that “every square meter” of the canal belongs to Panama highlights the potential for tensions to escalate into diplomatic crises across the hemisphere.  Such rhetoric destabilizes regional relationships, undermines diplomacy and political stability honed over decades, and erodes trust between the US and its neighbours.

As Canada tries to develop a strategy in response to Trump’s approach to global territorial disputes, leaders in this country must recognize that his public comments are indicative of a mindset where US foreign policy could be formulated based on his ignorance about and disregard for the norms of international relations and international law.  This is a man who seemingly cares little about diplomacy and cordial relations, and is willing to bully and threaten friends and allies to achieve his foreign policy goals regardless of the long term damage it might do.

Need for Preparedness and Solidarity

As members of the international community scan the horizon for the implications of a new Trump presidency, vigilance must become paramount for Canada and its neighbours.  The rhetoric of military intervention, annexation, and hegemonic ambition should be a warning sign to prepare for the real possibility of aggressive policies that threaten the sovereignty of Canada and other nations in the hemisphere.

The Canadian government must engage in proactive diplomacy to fortify alliances in the Latin American region and in Europe.  By fostering relationships built on mutual respect, collaboration and historic ties Canada can position itself as a regional leader committed to preserving sovereignty and peace.  There must be a concerted effort to deter the idea that America’s policy goals can be achieved through bullying, intimidation, territorial expansion or military aggression, aiming to unify voices against the fascistic impulses emanating from the US that threaten peace and stability in the Americas.

Addressing the threat of fascism

The threat that Trump’s presidency poses to the US and its neighbouring nations is symptomatic of a broader internal threat to democratic principles and the rule of law in that nation.  The suggestion that territories can be commandeered or absorbed based solely on American priorities stems from rising fascist sentiments over the last decade that have garnered traction within US politics within a the segment of society that are hard core supporters of Trump.

In “The Dangerous Case of Donald Trump”, a compilation of psychiatric insights put together during his first term, professionals delineate how Trump’s character poses a risk to national and individual well-being.  The inadequacies he displays in addressing complex geopolitical issues reveal a troubling trend toward authoritarianism, where personal whims bypass logic, justice and international norms.

As such the incoming Trump administration poses a “clear and present danger” not only to the principles of democracy but also to the very sovereignty that defines Canada and its neighbours.  His upcoming presidency challenges how nations collaborate, engage, and exist alongside one another, and poses a danger to the nations which stand in the way of his imperialist policies.
 
Shaping a Path Forward

As Canada and the other nations of the Western Hemisphere stand on a precipice of uncertainty, America’s neighboring nations must come together to defend the principles of sovereignty and the shared ideals of democracy.  Canadian leaders cannot afford to be naive and hope that traditional diplomatic tactics will save Canada from an incoming US president who has been described as a “sociopath”.  Its leaders must act decisively in forming coalitions and alliances that prioritize collective security over subjugation to a superpower led by a man with the impulse control of a child and the mental acuity of someone who shuns facts and valuable intelligence.
 
The rising tide of fascism in the US, which began in his first administration, calls for strategic responses that not only prioritize peace, cooperation, and respect for national boundaries, but also demonstrate national resolve to a bully who feels he can do what he wants without consequence.  If Canada and its allies fail to sufficiently prepare for the incoming Trump presidency the consequences could extend far beyond policy disagreements, and could threaten peace and stability throughout the hemisphere.

Only through united action, strong diplomatic ties, defence alliances, and a clear stand against imperialist ambitions can Canada and its allies hope to fend off the looming perils of a second Trump administration. In the dance for power, Canadian leaders need to make sure that our borders aren’t just lines on a map but expressions of sovereignty, identity, and mutual respect for the independence of all nations.

Fareed Khan is the founder of Canadians United Against Hate, a human rights activist, and has spoken and written extensively on public policy issues affecting the lives and the rights of Canadians.

© 2024 The View From Here.  © 2024 Fareed Khan.  All Rights Reserved.

Trump's hostility towards Canada telegraphs possibility of future aggression and attacks on Canadian sovereignty

The dismissiveness with which Trump treats relations with nations that are friends and allies, glossing over tactless comments as jokes or misunderstandings, is reminiscent of other world leaders who have used bullying, threats and aggression to assert dominance and control.

 

By Fareed Khan

 

In the realm of international relations, political rhetoric matters.  Words, especially those coming from the leaders of nations, carry weight and can serve as precursors to actions.  Donald Trump's return to the American presidency four years after a tumultuous first term, characterized by divisive comments about allies and threats against those who wronged him, raises alarming questions about the future of US-Canada relations. 

 

In light of his recent belittling remarks regarding Canada's sovereignty, and the potential for aggressive action against Canada — a neighbour, long time ally, and largest trading partner — should be taken seriously. American aggression against Canada is not merely a hypothetical scenario but a plausible outcome given Trump's erratic behavior, his lack of respect for political and diplomatic conventions, and his history of treating international relations as transactions rather than friendships.

A hostile comment passed off as a joke

At a recent event to honour Trump's political triumphs, he doubled down on comments that can only be interpreted as mockery towards Canada and Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau.  During the Fox Nation's "Patriot of the Year" ceremony, Trump repeated a remark that Canada should consider becoming the "51st state" and encouraged a chant from the audience that derided Canada's status as an independent nation.  While this comment has been framed as a joke by Trump insiders, they reflect a dismissive attitude towards one of America's closest allies and sends a troubling message that undermines Canadian sovereignty.

These comments followed his threats to impose a staggering 25% tariff on Canadian imports to the US in response to an unfounded claim that Canada was failing to stem the flow of drugs and illegal immigrants into the US.  This rhetoric echoes Trump's longstanding pattern of using fear and hostility to control narratives and assert dominance, not just over individuals but entire nations.  He appears to perceive Canada not as a partner, but as an entity that must bend to American whims, a notion that is fundamentally colonial and imperialist in its orientation.

The realities of tariffs and economic consequences

Should Trump follow through with his tariff threat, the repercussions for the Canadian economy would be dire given Canada’s dependence on the US as it’s largest trading partner.  Retaliation by the Canadian government would be inevitable, and the likelihood of an escalating trade war would result in ominous consequences for both nations, with retaliatory measures by Canada inviting a further response from a Trump administration, fuelling a cycle of hostility that would severely damage Canada-US relations.

 

Trump's propensity for rash reactions to perceived provocations cannot be underestimated.  If history has shown us anything, it is that he views conflicts as power struggles that need to be won at all costs.  Thus, if a trade war ensues, the escalation could veer into territory with ominous implications for Canadian sovereignty.

The possible threat of military action

Trumps aggressive attitude towards Canada and other allied nations during his first administration signals how he would behave during his second administration, and is not the sort of thing one expects from the leader of a nation that is a friend.  It is something one sees mainly in politicians with a far right, and some would say fascist, world view.  And given that fears surrounding Trump's fascist tendencies have been highlighted in public statements by former Trump administration officials, as well as by his ex-wife Ivana Trump, all of whom alleged that he was a fascist and admired authoritarian figures such as Adolf Hitler, should raise dozens of red flags in Ottawa and across the country about what will happen when Trump is in full control of the US government.

 

The dismissiveness with which Trump treats relations with nations that are friends and allies, glossing over tactless comments as jokes or misunderstandings, is reminiscent of other world leaders who have used bullying, threats and aggression to assert dominance and control.  The last hundred years is replete with examples of national leaders who, when diplomacy failed, resorted to sabre rattling and even military interventions to achieve their objectives.  As disturbing and unlikely as it may sound, the undercurrent of Trump's rhetoric could easily be a precursor to military action against Canada — especially in the context of controlling resources such as fresh water and critical mineral resources of value to the US and its military.

The role of military command and loyalty

Trump's proposed cabinet and the allegiance he seeks from those he is nominating to senior positions raises further concerns. His inclination to fill key positions with loyalists — individuals more interested in serving Trump's agenda than in upholding democratic tenets or maintaining positive relations with allies — means that checks and balances within the US political system are eroding.  When in office this could also extend to his choice of military leaders, who historically are supposed to serve the national interest and defend the US Constitution.  However, if Trump's regime consists of zealots with a belief in American exceptionalism and superiority, we may find them willing to support aggressive actions against non-existent threats.

Imagining a scenario where US military forces are directed against Canada is not as far-fetched as it appears under a fascist minded Trump administration.  Once feeling threatened economically or politically Trump may resort to using all US resources including the military to assert dominance over Canada either through threats or direct action. 

 

A Call to Canadian Vigilance

The growing body of evidence — both from public statements and actions taken by Trump since he first entered politics — demands that Canadian officials reassess their approach to dealing with him over the next four years.  Trump's penchant for belittling Canada, paired with the very real threat of economic warfare, must be viewed as a potential precursor to more aggressive actions.  Taking into account his apparent affinity for authoritarian and militaristic leaders it is imperative for Canada to enhance its defence strategies and alliances with allies, particularly those in NATO, that prioritize sovereignty and democratic values.

Canada's leaders must prepare for all scenarios while addressing domestic political concerns affected by a potential trade war or even more aggressive US actions.  Engaging with international bodies, strengthening partnerships with other allied nations, and fostering resilience at home will be vital to safeguard Canada and its interests.

Canadian leaders have been complacent about the Canada-US relationship for far too long.  In the coming years diplomatic niceties may not suffice with a US leader like Trump, a man who sees relationships as transactional, subject to capricious whims.  

Trump’s 51st state comment is a bad joke — until such a time it isn’t.  Therefore, it is incumbent upon Canadian leaders to take Trump’s tariff threats seriously in ways they haven't considered before, and to prepare to deal with the US in ways that haven't been contemplated since the 19th century.

The time to act to defend Canadian sovereignty from US aggression is now, and the potential for American aggression arising out of an economic dispute should not be dismissed as hyperbole. In a scenario where Canada-US relations could be upended it is better to prepare for the worst while hoping for the best.

 

 © 2024 The View From Here.  © 2024 Fareed Khan.  All Rights Reserved.

OP-ED -- Israeli influence on Canadian politics is a prime example of foreign interference

Canada’s advocacy for human rights is conditional, as we can see with the ongoing genocide in Gaza

  

By Fareed Khan

https://rabble.ca/politics/canadian-politics/israeli-influence-on-canadian-politics-is-a-prime-example-of-foreign-interference/

 

 

As Canada’s foreign interference public inquiry enters its 11th month it does so in the shadow of an International Criminal Court decision to issue arrest warrants for Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and for former defense chief Yoav Gallant for committing war crimes and crimes against humanity against Palestinians in Gaza since October 2023. 

 

It is important to mention this latest development in the Gaza genocide in the context of Canada’s inquiry because as Israel continues to commit heinous crimes against Palestinians, its agents in Canada also continue to work to manipulate, coerce and extort Canadian political leaders to give Israel a pass as it violates international laws with impunity, not just since last October but for decades.

 

Headed by Justice Marie-Josée Hogue the inquiry has been examining the involvement of foreign governments and their agents in Canada’s politics and government decisions, looking at issues like manipulating, coercing, or threatening Canadian politicians and government officials to support the interests of foreign governments in this country.

 

During the hearings scrutiny has largely centered on governments such as China, Russia and India. A striking omission in this discourse has been Israel, a nation that has exerted substantial influence in shaping Canadian policies related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the Middle-East broadly for decades.

 

The discourse surrounding foreign interference should encompass the actions of not only adversarial regimes but also so-called “allies” like Israel, which has demonstrated an unethical proclivity to coerce Canadian officials while working to stifle criticism of its policies and actions in the occupied Palestinian territories. Over the decades, Canadian agents acting on behalf of Israel (like CIJA and B’nai Brith) have utilized a multifaceted approach to influence and intimidate Canadian politicians who criticize Israel, coercing alignment with Israeli governmental interests, and systemically stifling criticism regarding its policies toward Palestinians and the crimes it has committed against the Palestinian people. 

 

This contrasts sharply with Canada’s swift and vocal condemnation of foreign aggression in Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The Canadian government and its citizens rallied in support of Ukraine, condemned Russian actions, and emphasized the importance of human rights and the international rule of law. Yet, when confronted with allegations of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and ongoing genocide by Israel against Palestinians Canada’s response has been muted, revealing profound biases at play in this country’s political ecosystem and the way issues around it are portrayed in the news media. This is the result of decades of Israel’s Canadian agents intimidating and extorting the Canadian government and elected officials to support Israel lest they be tarred with the label of “antisemitism”.

 

Canada responded with vigor to Russia’s aggression with the government imposing sweeping sanctions on Russian entities, expediting aid to Ukraine, and actively participating in international coalitions to condemn Russia’s actions. The Canadian government’s support for Ukraine contrasts sharply with its relative apathy relating to Israeli oppression of and aggression towards Palestinians, which have been met with excuses or silence.

 

The international community has witnessed shocking atrocities committed by Israel against Palestinians for years and particularly since October 2023 when the genocide in Gaza began. These actions have drawn condemnation from international human rights organizations, yet Canada’s political response has been markedly apathetic. When the issue of Israeli crimes against Palestinians has been raised by Canadian human rights activists, politicians have reframed the pro-Palestinian narratives through the lens of antisemitism rather than addressing Israeli violence against the Palestinian people. Such tactics protect Israel and its criminal leaders from scrutiny while silencing voices advocating for Palestinian justice and freedom.

 

Unfounded allegations of antisemitism are frequently used as a tool of censorship by Israel and their Canadian allies. But the conflation of legitimate criticism of Israel with anti-Jewish hate only serves to obstruct open discussions about the plight of Palestinians and is effectively victim blaming. This dynamic has enabled and fed anti-Palestinian racism, and resulted in a reluctance by many Canadian politicians to confront or acknowledge Israel’s criminal behaviour for reasons related to domestic politics. It creates an atmosphere where criticism of Israel government is met with hostility that stifles voices advocating for truth in the face of extreme injustice.

 

The overwhelming influence of the Israel lobby within Canada’s political and media landscape significantly shapes public opinion and discourse around issues related to Palestine and the Palestinian people. Many Canadian newspapers and TV news networks selectively present information downplaying or ignoring Israel’s criminal actions while amplifying narratives demonizing Palestinian resistance. This creates an illusion of consensus on the issue but ignores a critical examination of Israel’s egregious human rights crimes, and perpetuates anti-Palestinian prejudice and Islamophobia.

 

In this context we must look at why foreign interference by Israel remains largely unacknowledged and unchallenged. While the history of Jewish persecution and the Holocaust has led to the establishment of protective doctrines shielding Israel it cannot and should not be at the expense of Palestinian rights. In examining Israel’s exceptional influence in Canadian politics, we have to acknowledge that there is deeply entrenched anti-Palestinian racism at all levels of Canadian society, and much of it is perpetrated by Zionist organizations and their political, media and corporate allies acting in the interests of Israel.

 

Advocacy for Palestinian rights should be understood as a struggle against occupation, colonialism and ethnosupremacy. In acknowledging that Israel perpetuates a system of violent and racist apartheid, we must also support the human rights of Palestinians, and stand firmly against rhetoric that mutes these arguments through a lens of anti-Palestinian hate. Educational institutions, media, and public officials must work towards dismantling the narratives that enable this racist hierarchy, and emphasize the urgency of the Palestinian struggle for freedom.  

 

In order to be thorough the Hogue Commission must investigate Israel, a state that utilizes intimidation and coercion to influence discourse around Palestinian rights within the Canadian government (and in the governments of other nations). Investigating countries like China and Russia but ignoring Israel would be a clear demonstration of prejudice and racism on the part of the inquiry, which would sacrifice Palestinians and their rights on the altar of political expediency. Only by including Israel can the inquiry fully expose the depth of foreign governments’ influence on Canadian politics, and make the changes needed to preserve Canadian democracy against the influence of dangerous foreign actors. In light of the arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court relating to the Gaza genocide it should motivate Justice Hogue to expand the terms of the inquiry, and bring to light how an apartheid racist state committing genocide has interfered in Canadian politics and government policies not just for the past year, but for decades. 

 

Fareed Khan is the founder of Canadians United Against Hate and has written and commented extensively about issues around racism and human rights.

 

© 2024 Rabble.ca.  This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.
© 2024 The View From Here.  © 2024 Fareed Khan.  All Rights Reserved.