The latest episode of Inside Politics, hosted by Kevin Klein, featured a wide-ranging discussion on international conflict, Canadian security and political leadership, while also introducing a new voice to the panel.

Joining Klein were Winnipeg Sun columnists Royce Koop and Lawrence Pinsky, KC, along with the program’s newest panellist, Robert-Falcon Ouellette. Ouellette, a former Liberal Member of Parliament for Winnipeg Centre and recent Winnipeg mayoral candidate, is also a professor at the University of Ottawa and serves as a chaplain with the Canadian Armed Forces’ Fort Garry Horse.

The discussion began with Ouellette outlining the theme of his first column for the Winnipeg Sun, which explores the religious dimensions surrounding the conflict involving Iran. Ouellette noted that rhetoric surrounding the war has, in some cases, invoked religious language, including references to biblical prophecy and “end times.”

He contrasted those perspectives with Indigenous traditions, explaining that while Indigenous cultures historically practiced ceremonies and prayers before conflict, wars were rarely framed as efforts to convert others to a belief system.

“When conflicts are framed as battles between good and evil, particularly in religious terms, it becomes very difficult to find a path to peace,” Ouellette said.

Koop agreed religion often plays a role in global conflicts, particularly in the Middle East, though he noted that geopolitical interests frequently intersect with religious motivations.

Pinsky offered a different perspective, arguing the conflict with Iran is rooted more in political and human-rights concerns than religion. He described Iran’s ruling regime as oppressive and highlighted its treatment of women, LGBTQ citizens and political opponents.

The panel also examined Canada’s response to the conflict and debated whether Prime Minister Mark Carney’s shifting public position could weaken perceptions of leadership.

Ouellette suggested leaders should consult caucus members before announcing positions on major global issues to ensure consistency and unity within government.

“If your values appear to change day by day, it raises questions about leadership and stability,” he said.

Another major topic was security within Canada. The panel discussed reports that members of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps may be living in the country and whether Canada should more aggressively investigate and deport individuals linked to hostile regimes.

Koop argued that immigration oversight weakened during the pandemic years and called for stronger screening and enforcement.

The discussion concluded with questions about Canada’s military readiness. Ouellette noted that Canada currently lacks much of the equipment required to make a meaningful military contribution overseas, pointing to aging naval vessels, limited fighter aircraft and equipment shortages.

Despite those limitations, panellists agreed Canada should play a stronger diplomatic and strategic role internationally.

Klein closed the program by encouraging viewers to read the panellists’ columns at WinnipegSun.com and follow Inside Politics online and through podcast platforms.

Read their columns at winnipegsun.com