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e-4647 (Foreign affairs)

E-petition
Initiated by Michael Bybelezer from Côte Saint-Luc, Quebec

Original language of petition: English

Petition to the Prime Minister

Whereas:
  • Canada recognizes Hamas as a radical Islamist-nationalist terrorist organization;
  • Hamas uses the Gaza Strip as a base for terrorist operations aimed against both civilian and military targets in Israel;
  • On October 7th, 2023, Hamas launched an unprovoked terrorist campaign within Israeli borders, murdering over 1,300 Israeli civilians and military personnel, injuring thousands more, and abducting upwards of 200 Israeli hostages, including infants, children, men, women, and the elderly into Gaza.
We, the undersigned, concerned citizens of Canada, call upon the Prime Minister to demand the immediate and unconditional release of all Israeli hostages being held captive by Hamas; and to use all resources available to Canada, including diplomatic, economic, and military to apply pressure on Hamas to release the Israeli hostages; and to reaffirm Canada's commitment to supporting the State of Israel in its defense against terrorism.

Response by the Minister of Foreign Affairs

Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob Oliphant

Canada unequivocally condemns Hamas’ terrorist attacks against Israel on October 7. The appalling loss of life and the heinous acts of violence perpetrated in those attacks, including sexual violence, are tragic. Canada condemns Hamas’ unacceptable treatment of hostages and calls for their immediate and unconditional release.

Canada supports Israel’s right to exist and to defend itself in accordance with international law. Canada has also been clear that, in defending itself, Israel must respect international humanitarian law. Canada has also been clear that civilians and civilian infrastructure must be protected, and safe and unimpeded humanitarian access must be sustained. Palestinian civilians cannot be made to pay the price of defeating Hamas.

Hamas is a terrorist organization, listed under Canadian law. Nothing can justify its horrific attacks.

Canada imposed new sanctions on 11 individuals that hold senior positions within Hamas or its affiliates, and were integral to the planning, funding and execution of the October 7 terrorist attacks against Israel.

Canada is calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. Canada reiterates that any ceasefire cannot be one-sided, Hamas must immediately release all hostages, stop using civilians as human shields, and it must lay down its weapons. As the already untenable humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, it is essential that humanitarian relief reach those in need.

Since October 7, Canadian leaders and officials at all levels have been actively engaged on the conflict. The Prime Minister, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Minister of International Development are in regular contact with their counterparts, as well as Canada’s allies and partners in the region. Both Canada’s Foreign Minister and Minister of Development have travelled extensively to the region to discuss these important issues.

Canada is steadfast in our commitment, and will continue to work with its partners, towards lasting peace in the form of a two-state solution, where Israelis and Palestinians can live with peace, security, and dignity.

Canada mourns the loss of innocent life in this conflict. Canada expresses condolences to all families and communities affected by this violence.

Open for signature
October 24, 2023, at 2:36 p.m. (EDT)
Closed for signature
November 23, 2023, at 2:36 p.m. (EDT)
Presented to the House of Commons
Anthony Housefather (Mount Royal)
February 1, 2024 (Petition No. 441-02060)
Government response tabled
March 18, 2024
Photo - Anthony Housefather
Mount Royal
Liberal Caucus
Quebec