Yesterday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with Minister Benny Gantz, a member of Israel’s War Cabinet.

The Prime Minister and the Minister discussed the situation in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. They called for the immediate release of all remaining hostages and called on the international community to continue applying pressure to secure their release. Prime Minister Trudeau reiterated his unequivocal condemnation of Hamas and its brutal attacks against Israel.

The Prime Minister shared his concern around Israel’s planned offensive in the southern Gaza city of Rafah and the severe humanitarian implications for all civilians taking refuge in the area. He added that the protection of civilians is paramount and a requirement under international humanitarian law. The Prime Minister underscored the importance of increasing the volume of life-saving humanitarian aid for civilians, stressing the need for it to reach all of those in need, safely and without delay, as well as ensuring supplies do not reach Hamas.

Prime Minister Trudeau also thanked Minister Gantz for Israel’s support in enabling the departure of hundreds of Canadians from Gaza and stressed the need for continued support from Israel in facilitating the exit of the remaining Canadians and their extended families.

Prime Minister Trudeau reiterated Canada’s support for the right of Israelis and Palestinians to live in security, peace, and stability, and Canada’s longstanding support for a two-state solution. The Prime Minister and the Minister reaffirmed the strong bond between Canada and Israel and agreed to remain in contact as the situation continues to evolve.

Associated Links

• Canada-Israel relations
• Canada’s response to the crisis in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip
• Statement by the Prime Minister on the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip
• Joint Statement by the Prime Ministers of Australia, Canada and New Zealand
• Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with Israel War Cabinet member Minister Benny Gantz