The global political landscape was shaken this week by a series of high-stakes decisions that carry significant implications for Canada. Chief among them is the Trump administration’s proposed tariffs on Canada. As Canadians, we are deeply concerned about these economic measures, but it is essential to recognize the broader motivations behind them.
These tariffs are not simply about trade — they are intended to compel Canada to reassess its domestic and foreign policies. And although U.S. President Donald Trump focused on drugs coming across the border, the growing diplomatic divide between the United States and Canada extends far beyond this.
This week, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was welcomed at the White House as the administration’s first foreign visitor, a clear demonstration of America’s steadfast commitment to its Mideast ally. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has aligned himself with the International Criminal Court’s controversial decision to issue an arrest warrant for Netanyahu.
This stark contrast in foreign policy underscores a troubling reality: while the United States stands firm with Israel, Canada has distanced itself from its historic ally since the October 7 attacks.
In a world where democracies are under attack from radical Islamist forces seeking to undermine our values, Canada faces a critical question: which side are we on? The answer should be self-evident. Yet Canada continues to provide significant financial support to UNRWA, despite mounting evidence of the organization’s complicity in terrorism.
UNRWA has long perpetuated the refugee status of Palestinians rather than facilitating their integration into their host countries, and the revelation that at least nine of its staff members participated in Hamas’s October 7 massacre only reinforces concerns about its role in fostering extremism.
This week, Trump took decisive action, issuing an executive order that bans U.S. funding for UNRWA. His administration justified the move unequivocally, stating in the executive order that, “UNRWA has reportedly been infiltrated by members of groups long designated by the secretary of state as foreign terrorist organizations, and UNRWA employees were involved in the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel.”
Moreover, the U.S. is reviewing its involvement in UNESCO and withdrawing from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). As the White House noted, the UNHRC has allowed human rights abusers to shield themselves from scrutiny, while UNESCO has demonstrated a persistent bias against Israel.
Demonstrating how serious Washington is about antisemitism and radicalism, Trump also issued an executive order to deport pro-Hamas activists on student visas. In other words, national security and the fight against antisemitism is top of mind for the Trump administration.
This is a priority that should be taken seriously by Canadian policymakers. Working productively with America will require us to take steps to protect national security and crack down on antisemitism. That would help diffuse the Trump administration’s focus on Canada, aligning us not only with the White House, but with common sense.
The rationale behind many of Trump’s recent decisions is difficult to dispute. The United Nations, originally established to promote peace and security, has drifted from its core mission. Instead of fostering stability, several UN agencies have become platforms for anti-western rhetoric and policies that directly threaten democratic nations.
Canada must acknowledge this reality and take a hard look at its own role on the global stage. Since October 7, but indeed for much longer, our government has abandoned its once-principled stance and aligned itself with some of the world’s most repressive regimes at the UN.
We have actively participated in the UNHRC and defended the weaponization of international courts against our allies, all while continuing to fund agencies like UNRWA, which pose a tangible security risk to Israel.
At this critical juncture, Canada must recalibrate its foreign policy. Our relationship with the United States is of paramount importance, and ensuring the security of North America should also be our top priority.
To that end, we must work in lockstep with our closest ally to address mutual security concerns. The old world order is shifting, and Canada cannot afford to remain complacent. Instead of resisting change, we should embrace this moment as an opportunity for national growth and geopolitical maturity.
Strengthening our ties with the U.S., Europe and Israel is not merely a strategic move — it is a necessity for safeguarding our democratic values and our global standing.
Canada must not be bullied into submission, but we must also heed the legitimate concerns of our greatest allies. Canada is turning into ground zero for antisemitism. What are we going to do about it?
The choices we make in the coming weeks will determine the future of our country’s role on the world stage. Rather than retreating into defensive posturing, let us seize this moment to reaffirm our commitment to democracy, security and principled diplomacy. The time for action is now. Let’s go, Canada!
National Post