July 25, 2025
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has accused Israel of hindering humanitarian aid to Gaza and has urged international organizations to oversee all aid distribution.
“Canada condemns the Israeli government's inadequate response to the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza,” Carney stated during a press conference on Thursday night.
He emphasized, “Israel's control over aid distribution must be replaced by a comprehensive humanitarian assistance program led by international organizations. Many of these agencies are holding significant Canadian-funded aid that is currently blocked from reaching starving civilians. This denial of humanitarian aid constitutes a violation of international law.”
Currently, humanitarian aid in Gaza is delivered through established international efforts primarily led by the United Nations and the recently formed, U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, which operates under Israeli security oversight. However, the distribution process is significantly hampered by Israeli security measures, resulting in frequent delays and dangerous situations for Palestinians at aid points.
Carney’s comments followed French President Emmanuel Macron's announcement that France would formally recognize Palestinian statehood at the U.N. General Assembly in September, as European nations adopt a firmer stance against Israel.
This announcement provoked a strong reaction from both Israel and the U.S. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu labeled it a “reward for terror,” while U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described it as a “reckless decision” and an affront to the victims of Hamas' attacks on October 7.
Since October 2023, Israel has been engaged in conflict in the Gaza Strip following a violent assault by Hamas militants, which resulted in over 1,000 Israeli casualties. In retaliation, the Israel Defense Forces have caused significant civilian casualties in the besieged coastal enclave.
Carney also reiterated Canada’s demand for an immediate ceasefire and called on Hamas to release all hostages taken during the initial attack on Israel. He urged Israel to respect the territorial integrity of the West Bank and Gaza, reaffirming Canada’s commitment to a two-state solution in the Middle East.
“Canada will actively work in all relevant forums to advance this goal, including the participation of the Minister of Foreign Affairs at the upcoming UN High-Level Conference on a Two-State Solution in New York next week,” he added.
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