Canada’s Foreign Minister Melanie Joly stated that certain settlers “will be sanctioned” and that “we will also bring new sanctions on Hamas leaders”.
Foreign Minister Melanie Joly declared on Sunday that Canada would enact sanctions against Israeli settlements inciting unrest in the West Bank. Additionally, the country will impose further penalties on Hamas officials, following similar measures taken by the United States last week, as reported by news agency Reuters.
Earlier on Thursday, the United States imposed sanctions on four Israeli individuals allegedly involved in promoting violence in the occupied territory. In an interview with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation on Sunday, Joly remarked that specific settlers “will face sanctions” and added that “we will also introduce new sanctions on Hamas leaders.
While speaking from Ukraine, Joly commented, “We’re actively engaged in this. I’m ensuring that while I’m in Ukraine, the necessary work is being carried out in Ottawa, and I anticipate making an announcement soon.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau revealed on Friday his deliberation regarding the imposition of penalties on “extremist” settlements in the West Bank.
Since the Middle East conflict of 1967, Israel has maintained control over the West Bank of the Jordan River, a region that Palestinians seek as the cornerstone of their envisioned independent state. Within this territory, Israel has established Jewish communities, a move that many countries deem unlawful. Israel disputes this characterization, pointing to its historical and biblical ties to the land.
The West Bank has witnessed heightened levels of unrest in the 18 months leading up to Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7. Tensions have intensified since Israeli forces initiated military actions in Gaza.