Canadian authorities have reportedly foiled an alleged plot by Iran to assassinate Irwin Cotler, an 84-year-old former justice minister and a vocal critic of Tehran. This revelation was made public by Cotler's organization on November 18, 2024.
Irwin Cotler, who served as Canada's Justice Minister and Attorney General from 2003 to 2006, has been a prominent figure in advocating for human rights globally. Despite retiring from politics in 2015, he remains active through various associations, including the Raoul Wallenberg Centre for Human Rights, where he serves as international chair.
According to reports, Cotler was informed on October 26 that he faced an imminent threat of assassination within 48 hours, allegedly orchestrated by Iranian agents. Police authorities have been tracking two suspects linked to this plot. However, Cotler himself "has no knowledge or details regarding any arrests made," as stated by Brandon Golfman, a spokesman for his organization.
The Iranian government, through its official news agency IRNA, has dismissed these allegations as "ridiculous storytelling" and part of a "misinformation campaign against Iran." Issa Kameli, the director general for the Americas at Iran's foreign ministry, categorically denied the claims, emphasizing Tehran's stance against such accusations.
Despite the gravity of the situation, Canadian officials have remained tight-lipped. A spokesperson for Canadian Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc declined to comment, citing security reasons. Meanwhile, Francois-Philippe Champagne, another senior government minister, described the plot as "very concerning."
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