**The former Justice Minister's revelation raises concerns over Iranian threats against dissenters and international political figures.**
**Ex-Canadian Minister Confirms Foiled Iranian Assassination Attempt**
**Ex-Canadian Minister Confirms Foiled Iranian Assassination Attempt**
**Irwin Cotler, a vocal critic of Iran, reveals that he was targeted in a thwarted assassination plot linked to Tehran.**
Canada's former justice minister, Irwin Cotler, has publicly confirmed to the BBC that he was recently the target of a foiled assassination plot backed by Iran. The plot was alerted to him by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in late October. Cotler, 84, has a long history of criticism towards the Iranian government, previously advocating for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to be designated as a terrorist organization.
Reports, initially by The Globe and Mail, indicate that the threats against Cotler involved Iranian agents, with the RCMP relaying information on October 26 that he was facing an imminent risk within 48 hours. Although the exact status of the suspected assailants remains unclear, it has been reported that there was at least knowledge of two individuals potentially involved.
In light of the threats, Cotler has been under constant protection from the RCMP for over a year, particularly following the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel, with enhanced security measures like bulletproof vehicles and armed escorts. Recognized as a high-profile target due to his vocal opposition to Iran, Cotler's commitment to advocating human rights for Iranian political prisoners further intensifies his stance against the Tehran regime.
The concerns surrounding Cotler's safety coincide with a broader context of alleged Iranian plots against various targets, including an alleged attempt to assassinate then-President-elect Donald Trump, linked to an Afghan national charged by US authorities.
In response to these allegations, Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson denied any involvement, claiming the accusations were baseless and reminiscent of previous unfounded claims against Iran concerning attempts on US presidents. The international dialogue surrounding these incidents reflects the escalating tensions between nations and the serious ramifications of political dissent in the face of authoritarian regimes.
