QUESTION PERIOD — Global Affairs
Conflict in Gaza Strip
June 5, 2025
Senator Gold, on May 19, the Government of Canada joined with France and the U.K. to oppose the expansion of Israeli military operations in Gaza. The three countries threatened targeted sanctions if Israel did not cease its military offensive, lift restrictions on humanitarian aid and halt the expansion of settlements in the West Bank.
Since then, the Israeli government has not only continued its onslaught but has also severely limited the amount of aid going to Gaza, which has been described by the UN as the “hungriest place on earth.” What sanctions will the government impose and when will this happen?
The government remains committed to relief and rebuilding efforts in Gaza. We will continue to work with partners to ensure that aid reaches Palestinian civilians who desperately need it.
The government’s position on the conflict has been long-standing and has not changed. It is committed to ultimately achieving a two-state solution where Israelis and Palestinians can live in peace and security within internationally recognized borders.
It continues to call for the release of all hostages held by Hamas, to affirm there’s no role for Hamas in the future governance of Gaza and to call for a ceasefire. It will continue to work with its allies to help bring an end to the suffering of all peoples in the region.
The government continues to utter threats without consequences. The same statement says that Canada supports Israel’s right to defend itself but that its recent escalation is “. . . intolerable . . .” and “. . . wholly disproportionate.” In fact, the situation has been intolerable and disproportionate for more than 18 months.
Senator Gold, does the Government of Canada now accept that Israel has exhausted its right to self-defence and that the international community has to step in to prevent further violations of international humanitarian law, including genocide?
That is not the government’s position.
