DEMAND THAT CANADA UPHOLD ITS COMMITMENT TO INTERNATIONAL LAW AND PEACE

The announcement of the first stage of a ceasefire deal in Gaza by all parties is a desperately needed step towards ending Israel’s genocide in Gaza. This fragile ceasefire must mark the beginning of a sustained and principled effort to end Israel’s unlawful occupation and blockade — and to restore the rights and lives of the people in Gaza.

The devastation in Gaza is staggering. At least 67,000 people have been killed. 90% of homes have been destroyed. Two million people are displaced. Water and sanitation systems are decimated, almost all hospitals are non-functional, and people have endured hunger to the point of famine — all in contravention of international humanitarian law.

With a ceasefire in place, Canada has an obligation to ensure it lasts, to support a massive scale-up of humanitarian aid, and to ensure crimes under international law are investigated and accounted for.

Canada must:

• Use every diplomatic channel and economic lever to demand full, safe, and principled humanitarian access and promote accountability to international law.
• Increase pressure on all parties to the conflict to end the violence and prevent further civilian suffering.
• Apply a complete arms embargo on Canadian-made arms and arms components to Israel, including those through the US.

This fragile ceasefire must be the beginning of a sustained and principled effort that leads to ending Israel’s unlawful occupation and blockade. It must be focused on restoring rights and rebuilding lives. Any political or reconstruction plan must not entrench the occupation or further undermine Palestinian sovereignty. The path forward must be Palestinian-led and rooted in the fulfilment of fundamental rights.

Now is the time to act. Palestinians have a right to exist. Millions are suffering, and Canada’s leadership is crucial.

Add your name to demand that Canada uphold international law, ensure lasting peace, and stand for justice in Gaza.