QUESTION PERIOD — Global Affairs
Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps
October 17, 2023
Senator Gold, it’s great to say that the government is showing its solidarity with the State of Israel, but we also need action.
My question is not partisan by any means; it is simple and direct: Why isn’t the Canadian government ready to put into place punitive measures against nations that are supporting Hamas directly, such as Qatar and Iran? We are importing hundreds of millions of dollars of oil into our country from Qatar.
Of course, your government continues to refuse to list the IRGC, or Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, as a terrorist organization. When will you list the IRGC as a terrorist organization?
Thank you for your questions.
As I have answered on many occasions and about which I have little to add, there are a large number of organizations and individuals in Iran and the other countries that are listed as terrorist organizations. As I have explained before, those decisions are made through a process that is ongoing. In that regard, again, Canada is doing its part to defend Israel and to provide humanitarian aid to those who are suffering during this war. It will continue to do its part diplomatically to hold all governments to account if and as they support the barbaric acts perpetrated in the Middle East.
Senator Gold, with all due respect, for years, we have had motions in this chamber, and there have been motions that have passed in the House of Commons, calling upon the government to list the IRGC as a terrorist organization. Saying it takes time and is ongoing is not acceptable when it has already been seven or eight years. The government has the power to do this, and when you don’t do it, it empowers organizations like the IRGC.
When will you list the IRGC as a terrorist organization?
I’m sorry my answer does not satisfy you, Senator Housakos. As I have said on other occasions, it is an easy matter to make the argument, but it’s far more difficult and important to make sure that innocent people who are drawn into these matters do not suffer.
The government is taking its responsibility seriously and responsibly.
