Canada condemns Israeli strikes on Gaza, UN peacekeepers in Lebanon

A supporter of Israel's Gaza-Lebanon campaign, Canada now voices concerns over the growing humanitarian crisis


Reuters October 17, 2024
Vehicles of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) patrol in Marjeyoun in southern Lebanon on October 11, 2024. PHOTO: AFP

OTTAWA:

Canada on Wednesday notably toughened its tone with Israel, condemning Israeli strikes on civilian infrastructure in Gaza and United Nations peacekeepers in Lebanon and demanded the attacks stop immediately.

Canada has largely supported Israel's military campaign in Gaza and Lebanon but like some allies is starting to express concern about a humanitarian disaster.

"Canada condemns the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) increasing attacks on civilian infrastructure in northern Gaza as well as its attacks on the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon. These are unacceptable and must immediately stop," it said.

"The increasingly dire humanitarian situation is unacceptable and continues to deteriorate due to a significant decrease of aid allowed into Gaza .. the Palestinian civilian population has been displaced countless times, with nowhere safe to go and is unable to meet its most basic needs."

The statement - issued by Foreign Minister Melanie Joly and International Aid Minister Ahmed Hussen - reiterated Canada's call for an immediate ceasefire and also condemned attacks by both Hamas and Hezbollah on Israel.

COMMENTS

Replying to X

Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.

For more information, please see our Comments FAQ