441-02479 (Foreign affairs)

The Government of Canada shares the shock and horror felt across Canada – and around the world – at the brutal and unthinkable terrorist attacks by Hamas against Israeli civilians on October 7, 2023. The Government also recognizes the devastating toll faced by Palestinians as a result of the ensuing conflict. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is catastrophic. The tragic loss of civilian lives – particularly women and children – is heartbreaking. The Minister of Foreign Affairs has been clear: too many Palestinian civilians people have been killed; international law must be respected; civilians must be protected. The violence must stop.

This is why Canada has been calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire for many months. This is needed urgently, and it must not be one-sided. Hamas – a listed terrorist organization – must lay down its arms and release all hostages. Rapid, safe, and unimpeded access for humanitarian relief must be provided; the need for this assistance has never been greater.

Canada fully endorses and will stand behind the comprehensive deal outlined by President Biden on May 31, 2024, that would lead to an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all the hostages, a significant and sustained increase in humanitarian assistance for distribution throughout Gaza, and an enduring end to the crisis with Israel’s security interests and Gazan civilian safety assured. Canada reaffirms our support for a credible pathway towards peace leading to a two State solution. We call on Hamas to accept this deal, that Israel is ready to move forward with, and we urge all countries with influence over Hamas to help ensure that it does so.

Canada was the first G7 country to provide support to Gaza after October 7, 2023, and is one of the world’s largest donors of assistance to address the current crisis. To date, Canada has announced $165 million in humanitarian assistance to address the urgent needs of vulnerable civilians in this crisis, including a matching fund of $13.7 million. Recognizing the critical role played by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) in providing experience, infrastructure, and logistical capabilities to support other aid organizations, as well as the critical humanitarian situation in Gaza, Canada also showed leadership in becoming the first country to resume its funding on March 8, 2024. Canada will continue to work with fellow donors, the UN, and UNRWA to ensure that all recommendations relating to strengthening oversight, accountability, and transparency are fully implemented; a zero-tolerance policy against terrorism is enforced; and the principle of neutrality is fully respected in UNRWA activities.

Canada has also contributed to the establishment of a field hospital in Gaza, as well as participating in the maritime corridor to get more aid in by sea. In addition to our substantial humanitarian support, Canada has and continues to make considerable diplomatic efforts to ensure that assistance can reach vulnerable civilians in Gaza. Officials at all levels are actively advocating for more assistance to be able to enter Gaza and for more entry points to be open.

As the Minister of Foreign Affairs has outlined, Canada’s long-standing position is ultimately rooted three key principles: that Israel has a right to exist and by extension defend itself, in accordance with international humanitarian law; that protection of civilians is paramount; and that the Palestinian people have a right to self-determination. A sustainable ceasefire is a necessary path to towards securing lasting peace for Israelis and Palestinians, and why the Government has remained committed to its long-standing goal of a two-state solution, including the creation of a Palestinian state, where Palestinians and Israelis live side by side in peace, security, and dignity.