The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, met today with Israel Katz, Israel's Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Minister Joly reiterated Canada's long-standing position that Israel has the right to exist and defend itself in accordance with international law. Since October 7, Canada has unequivocally condemned Hamas's terrorist attacks, and Minister Joly reaffirmed this condemnation today. Minister Joly also reiterated Canada's call to immediately release all hostages.
Minister Joly expressed her deep concern over reports of sexual violence committed by Hamas against Israeli hostages in Gaza, including the report from the UN, and underscored Canada's strong support for investigations into such acts.
Minister Joly expressed deep concern about the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza and repeated Canada's call to increase access to allow humanitarian aid to enter Gaza through all means possible, including land crossings and the planned humanitarian sea corridor.
The Minister reiterated the need for Canadian citizens and permanent residents to be able to leave Gaza with their families and underscored that the protection of civilians is paramount.
Minister Joly reaffirmed Canada's commitment to the security of Israel and to achieving a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East through a two-state solution.
