In a recent opinion piece, Avi Benlolo argues that Prime Minister Mark Carney is applying a double standard by condemning Israel for the actions of a far-right minister while ignoring the world's worst tyrants. The article, published on May 22, 2026, criticizes Carney for focusing on Israel and failing to address other global crises.
Ben Gvir Controversy
The piece centers on Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who posted a video taunting activists detained after attempting to sail from Turkey to Gaza. Ben Gvir's actions were condemned by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as "not in line with Israel's values and norms." World leaders, including Carney, quickly condemned the incident and summoned Israeli ambassadors.
Double Standards
Benlolo argues that Israel is unfairly singled out, despite being a democracy with gay rights and minority protections. He suggests that world leaders should instead focus on the nations that permitted the flotilla and the fundraising mechanisms behind it. The article notes that 11 Canadians were aboard the flotilla and questions whether Canadian authorities are investigating the funding.
Benlolo references Gad Saad's book Suicidal Empathy, describing the tendency to turn anger against Israel rather than against those who provoke it. He calls this syndrome "weaponizing kindness."
The article concludes by urging Carney to apply the same scrutiny to other nations that violate human rights, rather than focusing solely on Israel.
