Canada's PM Carney Announces Anti-Hate Council Amid Controversy Over Members' Israel Positions
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a new Council on Rights, Equality and Inclusion to combat antisemitism while acknowledging rising hate incidents against Jewish Canadians. The council includes two members whose past statements on Israel and Palestinian issues have drawn criticism from Jewish organizations and opposition politicians. The controversy highlights tensions between efforts to address antisemitism and concerns about representation of diverse viewpoints on Middle Eastern conflicts.
Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a new Council on Rights, Equality and Inclusion aimed at combating racism and hate, stating that antisemitism in Canada is "specific, severe, and demands a targeted response." However, the appointment of council members Omar Alghabra, a former Liberal cabinet minister, and Avnish Nanda has sparked backlash from Jewish advocacy groups and opposition leaders. Alghabra has faced criticism for publicly mourning Yasser Arafat, declining to condemn the October 7 Hamas attacks when asked, and past comments characterizing Israel's military actions as occupation. Nanda supported maintaining a pro-Palestinian encampment at the University of Alberta that critics said created a hostile environment for Jewish students. B'nai Brith Canada reported 6,800 antisemitic incidents in 2025, a 9.4% increase from 2024, marking the highest volume recorded since tracking began. Jewish leaders and opposition politicians have questioned how council members with these positions can effectively combat antisemitism.
What's missing
The article does not include direct responses or statements from Omar Alghabra or Avnish Nanda addressing the specific criticisms leveled against them, nor does it provide their perspective on their qualifications for the council role.
What different sources said
- Fox News WorldRight
Canada's Carney pledges action on antisemitism amid backlash over new anti-hate council members
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