OPINIONS

An Open Letter to the Canadian Foreign Minister

From Prof. Ismail Zayid

Dec. 24, 2006

The Hon. Mr. Peter MacKay,
Minister of Foreign Affairs,
Ottawa.

Dear Mr. MacKay:

We note with interest your support for Security Council resolution imposing sanctions on Iran, because it is thought that Iran may be contemplating developing nuclear weapons. You are reported to have stated: " Canada fully supports the resolution adopted today.....Iran's non-compliance with its international obligations will not be tolerated."

This concern for compliance with international law and Security Council resolutions is impressive. But, pray, why is our governments concern is so selective? Israel stands today in defiance of scores of Security Council resolutions, related to illegal occupation and illegal annexation of Palestinian and Syrian territory, violation of human rights, creation of illegal settlements and other issues. Yet, we hear nothing but support from our government's leaders for the policies and practices of the state of Israel. Why is there no demand for Israeli compliance with international law and Security Council resolutions? Furthermore, as to nuclear weapons, Israel is not merely contemplating developing nuclear weapons but has developed and holds hundreds of nuclear weapons, for decades, and refuses to sign the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, that is internationally proclaimed. Yet, on this issue, we hear only a deafening silence from our government, as well as US and other allies.

Our government's concern for compliance with international obligations and Security Council resolutions must not remain selective and Israel must not be allowed to remain above international law..

Yours sincerely,

Dr. Ismail Zayid, MD.
President, Canada Palestine Association
P.O.Box 1085
Halifax, NS.
B3J 2X1

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