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Israel has responded robustly to recent condemnations from Canada regarding its military actions in southern Lebanon, asserting that Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government fails to grasp the existential threats posed by Hezbollah. Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel, who has ties to both Canada and Israel, dismissed Ottawa’s calls for Israel to retreat, insisting that the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) are compelled to act due to Lebanon’s inability to control the militant group.
Canada’s Stance on Israeli Occupation
Earlier this week, Canada’s Global Affairs issued a statement expressing strong disapproval of Israel’s ongoing military operations in Lebanon, labelling them as violations of Lebanese sovereignty. The ministry urged Hezbollah—a group classified as a terrorist organisation in Canada—to cease its hostilities against Israel and to disarm. This diplomatic rebuke highlights the strained relations between Canada and Israel, particularly in light of escalating violence in the region.
Haskel, who was born in Toronto but raised in Israel, argued that the Lebanese government lacks the authority to manage Hezbollah, characterising it as an Iranian proxy that operates independently of state control. “They don’t listen to the Lebanese government because this is an army of Iran,” she remarked, underscoring the complexity of the conflict.
Hezbollah’s Aggression and Israel’s Response
The backdrop to this diplomatic spat is a series of violent confrontations that erupted following a U.S.-Israeli air campaign against Iran on February 28, which included the assassination of Iran’s supreme leader, Ali Khamenei. In retaliation, Hezbollah launched strikes on Israel on March 2, marking a significant escalation in hostilities. Reports indicate that over 3,300 individuals have died in Iran, with Israeli airstrikes resulting in more than 1,000 fatalities in Lebanon and displacing over a million people.
Haskel articulated Israel’s predicament, stating, “Hezbollah continues to fire and destroy and kill our people.” She contended that without military intervention, Israel would face the daunting task of evacuating hundreds of thousands of citizens from the conflict zone. “Who’s going to pay for that?” she queried, highlighting the burdens of potential displacement.
International Criticism and Legal Justifications
The Israeli government faces mounting scrutiny for its military actions, including the destruction of infrastructure and homes in southern Lebanon. Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, recently announced intentions for a military occupation extending up to the Litani River, a move that could see Israel control nearly ten percent of Lebanese territory. The United Nations human-rights chief has condemned these operations, particularly the evacuation orders that have been issued.
In the wake of these developments, Haskel dismissed Canadian criticisms as “ridiculous” and overly simplistic. She defended Israel’s military actions as necessary for national security, arguing that they are aimed specifically at Hezbollah rather than the Lebanese civilian population.
The Broader Implications for Canada-Israel Relations
This incident is compounded by Haskel’s criticism of Prime Minister Carney’s comments regarding the legality of Israeli strikes, which she deemed “absolutely incorrect.” She urged Carney to better understand the intelligence surrounding the threats Israel faces, implying that the Prime Minister’s relationship with U.S. President Donald Trump may have clouded his judgment.
Haskel also expressed concern over rising antisemitism in Canada, suggesting that authorities are not doing enough to combat this growing issue. She likened antisemitism to a “mental disease” that, if left unchecked, could spread further. Her remarks come in the wake of increased violence directed at Jewish communities in Canada, including recent shootings at synagogues in Toronto.
The Canadian government has announced funding to enhance security for Jewish institutions, alongside proposed legislative changes aimed at strengthening hate crime laws. However, Haskel argues that these measures are insufficient, calling for a more robust enforcement of existing laws against antisemitic actions.
Why it Matters
The ongoing conflict in Lebanon and Israel’s military strategy have far-reaching implications not only for regional stability but also for international relations, particularly with allies like Canada. As both nations navigate this complex geopolitical landscape, the dialogue surrounding military necessity, national sovereignty, and humanitarian concerns will be crucial. The developments could redefine Canada’s foreign policy approach and its commitment to addressing rising antisemitism domestically, making this a pivotal moment in Canada-Israel relations.
