Prime Minister Justin Trudeau Calls for Calm Amidst Middle East Tensions
OTTAWA– In the wake of escalating tensions in the Middle East, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has made a fervent appeal for calm among Canadians with differing views on the matter. He also strongly condemned the recent surge in hate speech and violence in Canada.
Addressing the press as he entered a Liberal caucus meeting, Trudeau expressed his concern over the divisiveness prevailing across the globe. He specifically mentioned the rise of antisemitism in Canada, fueled by firebombings at two Jewish institutions in Montreal. Trudeau emphasized, Everything we’re seeing is dividing people right across the globe. And within our own country, we’re seeing right now a rise in antisemitism that is terrifying.
The Prime Minister condemned horrific incidents involving threats of violence targeting Jewish businesses and daycares. He staunchly asserted, This is not who we are as Canadians. This is something that is not acceptable in Canada, period.
Trudeau also acknowledged the rise of Islamophobia, both in Canada and globally, stating that expressions of hate against Muslims and Palestinians, as well as anyone waving a Palestinian flag, are equally unacceptable. He reiterated Canada’s position, condemning the attacks by Hamas on Israel a month ago, along with the distressing images of war in the Gaza Strip.
While Canada continues to call for humanitarian pauses in the conflict to ensure the safe evacuation of hostages and foreign nationals, including Canadians, as well as the delivery of humanitarian aid, the country does not support a ceasefire that could potentially compromise Israel’s ability to defend itself.
Trudeau emphasized the need for renewed efforts to revive talks surrounding a two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians, fostering an environment where both parties can coexist peacefully.
In an effort to address the ongoing crisis, the G7 foreign ministers released a unified statement in Japan, urging for humanitarian pauses. However, the statement fell short of calling for a ceasefire.
This story is developing, and further updates will be provided as the situation unfolds.
