Iran remains a leading threat to human rights and global security. The Jewish people globally are targeted by this threat, as seen in Iran’s genocidal rhetoric against Israel and sponsorship of terror groups, such as Hezbollah, that have targeted Jews in multiple countries.
In a 2018 vote, the House of Commons called on the Government of Canada to immediately end all discussions with Iran to restore diplomatic ties. Building on this cross-party consensus, Canada should ensure there is no renewal of ties or lifting of sanctions until the Iranian regime demonstrates meaningful improvements in its behaviour.
Clear benchmarks should be set to ensure diplomatic pressure is not relaxed so long as the regime continues violating the rights of Iranians, sponsoring terrorism, and seeking Israel’s destruction. Canada should use the “Magnitsky Law” to freeze assets and block entry of Iranian officials involved in human rights violations.
Recommendation
The government should ensure that the list of Iranian officials targeted by Canadian sanctions matches that of the European Union, the United States, and other key allies.