Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand has expressed her concern following the death of a Canadian citizen, Hassan Haidar, in Lebanon. Haidar, a 38-year-old father of five from Windsor, Ontario, was killed last week in what community members are calling an Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon. Anand has stated she is in contact with Israeli officials to gather more information regarding the circumstances of Haidar's death.
Anand conveyed her condolences to Haidar's family and community, emphasizing that Canadian officials are providing consular assistance. She reiterated Canada's support for the Lebanese government in restoring state authority, which includes the disarmament of Hezbollah. Anand also urged Israel to cease its attacks and called for a durable, diplomatic solution to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Lebanon.
Haidar's family has called on the Canadian government to help end the wars in Lebanon and other affected regions. According to reports, Haidar had moved his family to a safer location in Lebanon but remained behind to care for his horses. He was reportedly killed while trying to help someone injured in a previous drone strike.
The National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) has also stated that Haidar was killed in an Israeli strike. The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has intensified, leading to a rising death toll and widespread concern from international bodies and governments, including Canada.
