The release of Concordia University professor Homa Hoodfar from Iranian custody is a welcome event and no doubt a joyous moment for her friends and family. Despite the posturing in some quarters, Canada does not enjoy much global influence over countries like Iran. If anything, Tehran’s mullahs delight in displaying their contempt for the sort of Western, democratic values Canada espouses. A week before Hoodfar’s release, Canadian Kevin Garratt was freed from detention in China, where he had been held on accusations of spying, conveniently after concessions from Ottawa on Chinese concerns. It is possible Iran responded to entreaties from Canada for Hoodfar’s return.

Source: National Post September 28, 2016 12:45 UTC