Canada To Stop Arms Exports To Israel

Canada has made a significant decision to halt its arms exports to Israel, as confirmed by Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly during an interview with the Toronto Star today.

Joly affirmed the decision, stating, “It is a real thing,” indicating the seriousness of the matter.

This move comes in the wake of Canada’s parliament approving a motion put forward by the New Democratic Party (NDP) regarding Palestinian statehood on Monday. The motion called for an immediate ceasefire to terminate Israel’s military operations in Gaza and to cease arms trade with Israel.

Despite being non-binding, the Trudeau administration has expressed its intention to adhere to the motion’s directives. Joly asserted that the content of the motion reflects the government’s stance, saying, “Clearly the intent of this government” aligns with the motion.

Joly emphasized the significance of defining a two-state solution, highlighting Canada’s role as a G7 member in sending a signal to other countries within the group.

Prior to the parliamentary vote, Israel’s Ambassador to Canada, Iddo Moed, voiced opposition to the initial draft of the motion. Moed argued that the unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state would effectively reward Hamas, a designated terrorist organization according to the Canadian government, for its violent actions.

In response to Minister Joly’s announcement, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz expressed regret, characterizing Canada’s decision as undermining Israel’s right to self-defense against Hamas. Katz condemned Hamas for perpetrating atrocities against Israeli civilians, including vulnerable groups such as the elderly, women, and children, while affirming Israel’s commitment to combatting the militant group until it is eradicated and all captives are safely returned.

{Matzav.com}