Canada’s Military Spending, Gaza Aid Crisis, and Condo Market Decline

In a week marked by significant developments, Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney announced plans to increase military spending, while humanitarian aid in Gaza faces severe criticism. Additionally, Canada’s condominium market shows signs of a dramatic downturn, reflecting shifts in investment strategies and buyer demographics.

Canada’s Military Spending Commitment

During the G7 summit in June 2025, Carney pledged to increase Canada’s military expenditure to 5 percent of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) by 2035. This commitment aims to align Canada with the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s (NATO) target of 2 percent by the end of this year. Critics have raised concerns about the methodology behind these figures, suggesting that the government may include veterans’ benefits in its calculations. This could mean that approximately a third of the proposed military spending would be allocated to civilian infrastructure projects, such as the ongoing $10 billion renovation of Montréal–Trudeau Airport.

The implications of these military spending increases are profound, as they will necessitate tough decisions regarding national priorities. The phrase “guns or butter” has resurfaced in public discourse, highlighting the stark choices facing the government.

Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

In Gaza, the humanitarian situation has drawn intense scrutiny, particularly regarding the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), which has been condemned for its militarized aid distribution scheme. According to a report by Doctors Without Borders, the GHF’s operations violate the principle of humanitarian impartiality and may breach international law. A critical factor contributing to the chaos at GHF distribution points is the inconsistent disclosure of opening times, often communicated on social media with minimal notice, leading to dangerous overcrowding.

“Crowds typically gather at aid distribution points hours in advance, often with no knowledge of when—or if—the gates will open,” stated Danny Glenwright, president and CEO of Save the Children Canada.

Violence has surged at these sites, with reports indicating that children have been killed or injured in over half of the attacks on food distribution points since the GHF began operations. The situation remains dire as civilians are often directed into heavily militarized zones under armed surveillance, exposing them to further risks.

Decline of the Canadian Condo Market

Meanwhile, the Canadian condominium market is experiencing a significant downturn. Research conducted by Statistics Canada indicates that many condos built in the late 2010s and early 2020s were intended primarily for investment rather than for residential living. This shift has led to a saturation of the market, with fewer buyers showing interest.

Writer Kathy Chow reveals that the typical condo investor is not a large corporation or foreign entity, but rather middle-aged, middle-class couples. This demographic has increasingly viewed condo ownership as a viable investment strategy, particularly during periods of low interest rates and weak rent control policies. However, as the market cools, many of these investors are now facing challenges in selling their properties.

The combination of geopolitical tensions, national defense commitments, and shifts in real estate investment strategies illustrates a complex landscape in which humanitarian needs, political priorities, and economic realities intersect. As Canada navigates these challenges, the implications for its citizens and international relations remain to be seen.