Sat Mar 08 04:21:07 UTC 2025: ## Trudeau Declares Himself a Zionist Amidst Soaring Antisemitism in Canada

**OTTAWA** – Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau publicly declared himself a Zionist, asserting his belief in the rights of the Jewish people and urging Canadians not to fear identifying as such. His statement, made at the National Forum on Combatting Antisemitism, comes amidst a dramatic surge in antisemitic incidents across the country.

Trudeau emphasized that the increasing normalization and even rationalization of antisemitism is unacceptable. He highlighted the misuse of the term “Zionist” as a pejorative, stating it simply means believing in the right of Jewish people to self-determination.

The Israeli Embassy in Canada welcomed Trudeau’s statement, citing the alarming 670% increase in antisemitic incidents since October 7th, according to Israel’s Diaspora Ministry. While praising the solidarity expressed, the Embassy stressed the need for concrete actions to combat hate and promote education.

However, Trudeau’s declaration sparked immediate controversy. UN Special Rapporteur for Human Rights Francesca Albanese countered that Zionism infringes upon Palestinian self-determination, arguing that opposing antisemitism shouldn’t negate other rights. Albanese highlighted Canada’s legal obligations to support Palestinian self-determination under international law.

Social media reactions were sharply divided. Some users criticized Trudeau’s statement, equating it to condoning actions by the Israeli government, while others expressed disgust and pointed to the timing of the announcement as Trudeau prepares to leave office.

This latest statement builds upon Trudeau’s previous assertions that Zionism is not a pejorative term. His declaration comes as he prepares to step down as Prime Minister, with former Bank of Canada Governor Mark Carney seen as the frontrunner to succeed him.

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