Canada Must Stand Strong: No to Trump’s “Board of Peace”

This isn’t about genuine peace-building; it’s about control, influence, and likely, lining the pockets of those connected to Trump’s orbit. Let’s be clear, any solution for Gaza must be led by Palestinians, and supported by the international community through established channels like the UN, not some vanity project orchestrated by a man with a well-documented history of undermining international institutions and sowing division.

The fact that this “Board of Peace” comes from a figure who has repeatedly stoked hatred and division, both at home and abroad, should raise alarm bells for every Canadian. How can we possibly trust someone who actively undermined democratic institutions to genuinely foster peace in one of the world’s most volatile regions?

This isn’t just about the money, although a billion dollars could be far better spent supporting refugees, bolstering our healthcare system, or investing in climate action. It’s about our values. It’s about Canadian sovereignty and our right to determine our own foreign policy, free from the dictates of a rogue political actor south of the border. It’s about standing up for what’s right, even when it’s unpopular, and refusing to be complicit in a scheme that smells more like exploitation than genuine assistance.

Some might argue that Canada needs to be at the table to have a voice. But at what cost? Surrendering our principles and handing over a billion dollars to an organization with questionable motives is not a seat worth having. True influence comes from moral authority, from acting in accordance with our values, and from working with partners who share our commitment to peace and justice.

We must remember that appeasement has never stopped authoritarians. As we watch the rise of populist movements around the world, and yes, even witness disturbing echoes of them here in Canada, we must be vigilant in protecting our democratic values and resisting those who seek to undermine them. This “Board of Peace” is just another attempt to consolidate power and silence dissent.

Canada must stand firm. We must reject this blatant attempt to buy our allegiance and instead focus on supporting genuine efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace for Palestinians through established international channels and humanitarian aid. It’s time to put people before politics and stand up for what’s right, even when it means saying “no” to a powerful neighbour. Anything less would be a betrayal of our values and a dangerous precedent for the future.