Canadian Readers Voice Opposition to Gaza Reconstruction Funding and Trump's Economic Policies
In the latest edition of letters to the editor published on January 22, 2026, readers of the Toronto Sun have expressed strong opinions on international affairs and domestic politics, with particular focus on Canadian involvement in Middle East reconstruction and American economic policies.
Opposition to Canadian Funding for Gaza Reconstruction
One reader from Orillia, Ontario, voiced firm opposition to former Bank of Canada governor Mark Carney's reported agreement to join a board overseeing Gaza's reconstruction following recent conflicts. The correspondent argued that Canada should not allocate any financial resources toward Gaza until Hamas, described as a terrorist organization, completely disarms and disbands.
"There should not be a single dollar of Canadian money to be spent on Gaza until Hamas disarms and disbands," the reader wrote, emphasizing that Canada faces significant domestic challenges including homelessness that require attention before international commitments.
The letter references reports that Canada is already spending millions on aid to the region, but maintains that domestic priorities should take precedence over foreign reconstruction efforts, particularly given the circumstances surrounding the conflict's origins.
Criticism of Donald Trump's Tariff Policies
Another correspondent from Melbourne, Australia, offered a scathing assessment of former U.S. President Donald Trump's approach to international relations, describing it as "standard bully behaviour." The reader catalogued what they termed multiple "wars" initiated by Trump, including:
- Armed conflict through the invasion of Venezuela
- Medical misinformation campaigns with reduced funding
- Education policy battles involving book banning and curriculum changes
- Economic warfare through tariff threats against eight countries
The letter specifically addresses Trump's declaration of increased tariffs against countries supporting Greenland, arguing that such measures would ultimately harm American consumers through higher import costs. "The latest declaration of increased tariffs for so far eight countries that have dared defy him by supporting Greenland will mean that U.S. citizens will pay more for imports," the correspondent noted, while acknowledging that these tariffs currently appear to be on pause.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford's Political Approach
A third letter from Niagara Falls, Ontario, drew a colorful comparison between Ontario Premier Doug Ford and the Big Bad Wolf from the classic fairy tale The Three Little Pigs. The reader suggested that both figures engage in considerable "huffing and puffing" but ultimately achieve limited results.
"Both Ford and the Big Bad Wolf spend their time huffing and puffing trying to blow things down," the correspondent wrote, adding that despite significant posturing, "the house is still standing and the tariffs are still there." The letter acknowledges that Ford must maintain opposition to certain policies even when such opposition has proven largely ineffectual.
These letters reflect ongoing public engagement with both international diplomatic matters and domestic political leadership, showcasing the diverse perspectives of readers across Canada and beyond on issues ranging from foreign aid allocation to economic policy and political strategy.
