Canadian Prime Minister Calls Out Antisemitism Amid Controversy
Prime Minister Mark Carney has expressed concern this week about the alarming rise in attacks on Jewish Canadians. In a recent statement, he condemned these acts as “brutal targeting” and announced the formation of a new anti-racism council. However, the council’s composition has raised eyebrows, as it includes two members whose views on Israel are questioned.
In response to Carney’s remarks, many have criticized the inclusion of Omar Alghabra, a former Liberal cabinet minister. Alghabra has faced backlash for his past comments about Israel and for expressing sorrow over the death of Yasser Arafat, a figure associated with Palestinian nationalism and described by some as a terrorist leader. After the recent attacks by Hamas on Israel, Alghabra was asked if he would condemn their actions, but he chose not to respond.
Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre has also voiced his concerns regarding Alghabra’s suitability for the council, citing prior instances where Alghabra advocated for Hezbollah’s status as a legal organization. However, records show that Alghabra has called Hamas a terrorist organization in the past.
The other controversial member, Avnish Nanda, has been involved in efforts to maintain a pro-Palestinian camp at the University of Alberta, which critics claim fosters an unwelcoming atmosphere for Jewish students.
In 2025, B’nai Brith Canada documented 6,800 antisemitic incidents, marking a 9.4% rise from the previous year—an average of almost 19 incidents daily, the highest number recorded since tracking began. Rabbi Zolly Claman of Montreal voiced his shock and disappointment at Alghabra’s appointment to the council, given the current climate of antisemitism.
Claman questioned how the prime minister could think this choice would be beneficial for Jewish Canadians, who feel increasingly vulnerable. He emphasized the community’s struggles to comprehend why such appointments would be made in light of recent antisemitic violence.
When announcing the new Council on Rights, Equality and Inclusion, Carney emphasized the need for a focused approach to combating antisemitism, acknowledging the severity of the issue in Canada today.
While B’nai Brith Canada appreciates Carney’s acknowledgment of rising antisemitism, they insist that more decisive action is necessary. Simon Wolle, the organization’s CEO, welcomed the formation of the council but stated that its current authority might not be enough to address the growing crisis adequately.
Concerns have also been raised by Jewish activists, like Ariella Kimmel, who pointed out the disproportionate targeting of Jewish people in Canada. Despite the Jewish population being only 1.2% of the overall population, they represent 75% of hate crime victims. Kimmel criticizes the government’s response to hatred directed at Jews, stating it lacks the necessary focus on the specific issues the community faces.
Many believe that recognizing the problem is important, but tangible actions are crucial in combating rising antisemitism in Canada. The community calls for a more effective approach rather than simply forming councils and groups that may lack the power to enact real change.
As the nation grapples with these issues, the spotlight remains on Prime Minister Carney’s commitment to tackling antisemitism and whether the new council can deliver effective solutions during these challenging times.
