Canada urges 'Israel to unblock humanitarian aid immediately'

By Merve Aydogan

HAMILTON, Canada (AA) - Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand called on Israel Friday to "immediately" allow the flow of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, where deaths by starvation have climbed in recent days.

"Today, I spoke with Minister Gideon Saar. I underlined the urgent need for Israel to unblock humanitarian aid immediately, of which Canada has committed over $300 million, and to end the unnecessary humanitarian crisis in Gaza," Anand said in a post on X.

She said Canada remains committed to efforts to restore peace and stability in the region.

"I also reiterated Canada’s ongoing support for an immediate ceasefire. Hamas must release all hostages, lay down its arms and play no role in the governance of a Palestinian State," she said.

She confirmed her attendance to upcoming UN conference in New York on the two-state solution, and said: "Canada is committed to a two-state solution where Palestinians and Israelis can live peacefully side by side."

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Thursday had condemned Israel's failure to prevent a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, urging the Israeli government to relinquish control over aid distribution and allow international organizations to take the lead.

"Israel’s control of aid distribution must be replaced by comprehensive provision of humanitarian assistance led by international organizations," he said on X.