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| http://geography.howstuffworks.com/africa/the-suez-canal.htm |
When the Suez Crisis erupted in 1956, the possibility for large scale violence was huge. In short the crisis was prompted by Nasser nationalizing the canal which was a huge blow against Britain and France power in the region. They decided a response was necessary and began planing military action. However without just cause, they conspired with Israel, another enemy of Nasser. Israel then launched an attack giving cause for France and Britain to send peace keeping troops. This created a war prone environment and is exactly when Canada stepped in. Britain and France are criticized for there so called peacekeeping force by the international community, and traditional alliances where thrown into jeopardy. For example the longstanding U.S U.K relationship was stressed. At this point In comes the amazing Canadian diplomat Lester Pearson.
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| Lester Pearson |
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He proposes the replacement of french and British troops with the first actual UN peacekeeping force. He muscles the proposal through, and the insertion of these new troops calms the situation. Israel as well as Britain and France remove there troops and the situation stabilizes, at least until 1967 in the 6 day war.
http://www.canadahistory.com/sections/politics/Prime%20Ministers/Lester%20Pearson.html
Interesting assessment of the Suez Crisis. I find it interesting that Canada was able to play such a crucial role in such a heated event. I guess it benefits from being aligned so closely to both the United States and Great Britain. That seems to put it in a unique position to effectively pursue peace. How exactly did Canada influence the UN to bring in Peace Keepers, especially since it does not have a permanent seat on the UNSC?
ReplyDeleteThe debate was forced into the general assembly this let Lester Pearson to have a go at it.
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