Liberal Leader Mark Carney sparked controversy during a rally in Calgary by incorrectly stating that Canada has an arms embargo on Israel and seemingly agreeing with claims of “genocide” in Gaza. Carney later clarified his remarks, stating he misheard the heckler and referencing Canada’s suspension of certain arms export permits, not a full embargo. His comments have been criticized by Israeli officials and Jewish-Canadian groups.
Controversial Rally Moment in Calgary
During a rally in Calgary on April 8, 2025, Liberal Leader Mark Carney was interrupted by a heckler who shouted that a “genocide” was occurring in Palestine. Carney appeared to respond with, “I’m aware, it’s why we have an arms embargo.” This comment was met with cheers from the crowd but immediately triggered media attention and political backlash.
2. Walk-Back and Clarification
Speaking at a press conference the next day, Carney attempted to clarify his comments. He stated he did not hear the word “genocide” and was simply referring to Canada’s suspension of certain arms export permits to Israel. These permits excluded systems critical to Israel’s Iron Dome, which intercepts incoming rocket attacks.
“You get snippets of what people say. I heard ‘Gaza’… my point was that I’m aware of the situation,” Carney said.
He did not retract the statement about an arms embargo but shifted the language toward “arms restrictions.”
3. Reactions from Israeli and Jewish-Canadian Leaders
Carney’s remarks drew a strong reaction from Israeli government officials and Canadian Jewish organizations. A senior Israeli official called the comments “unfortunate” and inconsistent with Canada’s actual policy, which does not include a full embargo on Israel.
Richard Robertson from B’nai Brith Canada criticized Carney’s remarks, calling them a “shameful endorsement” of misinformation that could feed antisemitic narratives in Canada.
“Our leaders must stand up to those who are spreading misinformation and inciting hate,” said Robertson.
4. Canada’s Current Policy on Arms Exports to Israel
Canada has not imposed a complete arms embargo on Israel. Instead, a limited number of arms export permits have been suspended. These do not affect defensive systems like the Iron Dome. This nuanced distinction is central to understanding the controversy surrounding Carney’s statements.
The previous administration under Justin Trudeau had supported Israel’s right to self-defense and avoided labeling its military actions as genocide.
5. Political Implications and Public Discourse
The incident highlights growing political tension in Canada over foreign policy and Middle East issues. Carney’s statements put him at odds with traditional Liberal policy and could influence voter perception, especially within communities sensitive to antisemitism and misinformation.
The misstep also underscores the risks of campaign-trail rhetoric in a hyper-politicized environment leading up to the federal election.
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