- Prime Minister Mark Carney Demands Independent Probe Into Treatment of Activists
OTTAWA — Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Monday sharply criticized Israel over the treatment of activists detained aboard a Gaza-bound aid flotilla, describing the handling of civilians as “appalling” and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as “catastrophic,” according to a statement released by his office.
During talks with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Carney reiterated Canada’s strong condemnation of the detention and alleged mistreatment of activists, including Canadian citizens, intercepted by Israeli authorities while attempting to deliver aid to Gaza.
“The Prime Minister reiterated that the appalling treatment of civilians, including Canadian citizens, aboard the Gaza-bound flotilla was unacceptable, and he called for an independent investigation,” the statement said.
Ottawa Reaffirms Opposition to Israeli Settlements and Violence in West Bank
Carney also reaffirmed Canada’s opposition to the expansion of Israeli settlements deemed illegal under international law, as well as settler violence in the occupied West Bank and attacks against Palestinian civilians.
The latest remarks signal a significant deterioration in relations between Israel and one of its traditionally close Western allies. While Carney had already criticized Israel’s handling of the flotilla last week, Monday’s broader condemnation underscored growing tensions between Ottawa and Tel Aviv amid mounting international concern over the conflict in Gaza.
The Israeli Embassy in Ottawa did not immediately comment on the Canadian statements.
Activists Allege Abuse and Sexual Assault During Detention
Organizers of the aid flotilla claimed that several activists detained by Israeli authorities were subjected to abuse while in custody. According to organizers, multiple individuals required hospitalization for injuries, while at least 15 activists reported cases of sexual assault, including allegations of rape.
Israel’s prison service has denied the accusations.
Last week, Israel’s ambassador to Canada reportedly told the Globe and Mail newspaper that bilateral government-to-government relations between the two countries had reached their lowest point ever.
Foreign Minister Anita Anand Raises Consular Access Concerns
Separately, Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand said she spoke with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar on Monday and informed him that Ottawa would provide evidence regarding the alleged mistreatment of Canadian citizens detained during the flotilla operation.
In a post on X, Anand said she emphasized that denying Canadian citizens access to consular services while in detention constituted a violation of the Vienna Convention.
“I raised that denying Canadian citizens access to consular services while they were detained violates the Vienna Convention and must never happen again,” Anand stated.
Israel Accuses Activists of Hamas Sympathy, Raises Antisemitism Concerns
For his part, Saar defended Israel’s position, saying the activists involved in the flotilla mission had been inspired by Hamas.
He also voiced concern over rising antisemitic incidents in Canada, claiming the country was experiencing an average of 19 antisemitic incidents per day.
“The Canadian government must take steps against antisemitic incitement and attacks,” Saar said in a statement posted on X.
BY: The Times Union
