Canada’s foreign affairs minister stated on Wednesday that Ottawa is reassessing its ties with Israel following Israel’s attack in Qatar. Anita Anand, the minister, mentioned that the attack on Qatar was unacceptable and led to deaths on the ground during Qatar’s peace efforts. Anand emphasized the need for peace in the Middle East and addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza amid ongoing developments in the region.
When questioned about European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s intentions to pursue sanctions and a partial trade suspension against Israel due to the Gaza conflict, Anand responded by indicating that the Canadian government is continually reviewing its strategies in response to the situation.
The attack by Israel on Hamas leaders in Qatar, resulting in five casualties, drew widespread criticism from world leaders as Qatar has played a significant role in mediation between Israel and Hamas. Prime Minister Mark Carney condemned the attack as a violation of Qatar’s sovereignty and an escalation of violence. Even U.S. President Donald Trump distanced himself from the Israeli strike, emphasizing that it was not a decision made by him.
In defense of the attack, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu linked it to recent violent incidents involving Hamas, asserting that further actions against Qatar could be taken unless terrorists are expelled or brought to justice by the nation. The conflict in Gaza has placed Israel in a more isolated position globally, with calls from Western allies to end the war and address the humanitarian crisis in the region.
The strike in Qatar represents an escalation in Israel’s conflict with Hamas, which began with an attack by Hamas on Israel in 2023. The European Union’s stance on Israel and Palestine remains divided, with uncertainties about endorsing von der Leyen’s proposed sanctions. Notably, Canada and other nations are gearing up to officially recognize a Palestinian state at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly session.
The evolving situation underscores the complexities in the region and the varied responses from global leaders towards the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
