Canadian Father Killed in Israeli Airstrike While Saving Man on Lebanon Farm
A Windsor man was killed on his horse farm in southern Lebanon during Israeli airstrikes last week, his family has confirmed. Hassan Haidar, 38, a married father of five, died while trying to save another man during a drone attack on his private property.
Details of the Tragic Incident
According to his brother Mohamad Hussain Haidar, Hassan was in Lebanon caring for horses on the family farm when he heard cries for help from a farm worker who had been shot by a drone last Thursday. While on the phone with his wife, Hassan went out to assist the injured man and was shot in the head, resulting in his death. Mohamad shared this account at a news conference outside Windsor City Hall on Monday.
Hassan had been in Lebanon since November, having moved his wife and children to a safer location within the country but staying behind to tend to his horses. His sister Fatima described him as a kind man, a mechanical engineer, and an animal lover who dreamed of owning the largest horse farm in Lebanon. She emphasized that he died on his own property while attempting to save another human being.
Family Background and Community Response
Fatima noted that her parents immigrated to Canada from Lebanon 20 years ago to escape the armed conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Hassan was the second-born in a family of six siblings, known for his social nature and close bonds with his family.
Windsor MPP Lisa Gretzky expressed her condolences in a Facebook post, calling the loss heartbreaking and condemning the violence that took his life. She urged for peace and mourned with the community.
Official Statements and International Context
Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand issued a statement on Monday, extending condolences to Hassan's family and confirming that Global Affairs Canada is providing consular assistance. She reiterated Canada's support for the Lebanese government's efforts to restore state authority and called on Israel to cease attacks, advocating for a diplomatic solution to the conflict.
This incident highlights the ongoing tensions in the region, with Canada urging an end to hostilities to prevent further loss of innocent lives.
