A Windsor resident from Ontario tragically lost his life last week in Lebanon while attempting to rescue a helper on his property, according to his family. Mohamad Hassan Haidar, a devoted father of five, was tending to his horses in the southern Lebanese town of Qana when a drone strike occurred, as shared by his siblings during a press briefing on Monday.
Described by his sister Fatima Haidar as someone with a vision of establishing the largest horse farm in Lebanon, Hassan risked his life to care for his beloved animals and ensure his family’s safety. The family highlighted Hassan’s dedication to his horses, mentioning that he valiantly returned to them despite the danger.
The unfortunate incident coincided with Israeli troops launching an offensive to capture a key town in southern Lebanon from Hezbollah militants. The National Council of Canadian Muslims attributed Haidar’s death to the Israeli forces.
Following the tragedy, Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand expressed condolences for the loss of a Canadian citizen in southern Lebanon and emphasized Canada’s support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and the disarmament of Hezbollah. The family recounted how Hassan, while speaking to his wife over the phone, rushed to aid a distressed individual nearby but tragically did not make it in time.
Hassan’s brother, Hussein Haidar, shared memories of Hassan’s altruistic nature, mentioning his active involvement in community service while growing up in Lebanon. After immigrating to Canada, Hassan pursued studies in automotive technology, eventually becoming a licensed mechanic and working towards a mechanical engineering degree.
Former Windsor West NDP MP Brian Masse joined the family in calling for the Canadian government to halt all trade with Israel, criticizing the lack of proactive measures in addressing human rights concerns. The family and community mourned the loss of a hardworking individual who aspired to retire early but sadly passed away at the age of 38.
As diplomatic efforts continue between Lebanon and Israel, discussions are underway to secure a ceasefire and address the ongoing conflict in the region. The community, along with political figures, voiced their condemnation of the violence that claimed Hassan’s life and called for peace in the midst of escalating tensions.