Public statements from Irwin Cotler or verified news sources

RCMP Foils Iranian Plot to Assassinate 84-Year-Old Jewish Ex-Justice Minister Irwin Cotler

Nov 18, 2024, 04:11 PM

Canadian authorities have foiled an alleged Iranian plot in October to assassinate Irwin Cotler, an 84-year-old Jewish former Canadian justice minister and attorney general. The RCMP informed Cotler about the assassination attempt, which involved agents of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps operating in Canada. Cotler, a renowned human rights advocate and outspoken critic of the Iranian regime, has been under constant police protection since the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, including bulletproof vehicles and armed officers. Members of Parliament have condemned the alleged plot and are urging the government to take stronger action against Iran, including addressing concerns about IRGC agents exploiting Canada's refugee system. This incident raises serious concerns about national security and the safety of Canadian citizens who critique foreign regimes.